4.2 Job batch flow mass (AS)

Disadvantage of mass customization

• high level of “work-in-progress” for

  each stage of production, the work may be boring and demotivating for workers, if batches are small unit costs may be high, cleaning may need to be completed between batches

• enables economy of scale if batches are large enough, batches can be matched to demand, batch design can be changed

• limited opportunity to make different versions of product; expensive and disruptive if the production process has to be stopped

• high setup costs and equipment costs

Advantage of mass customization

• high setup costs, boring repetitive tasks, demotivating for employees

• capable of producing large quantities with a process that is normally automated. Ideal for products that have to be a consistent quality

• designs include customized elements to standardized parts reducing consumer alienation, differentiated products

  for consumers, low unit cost for “customized” product,

  reducing boring and repetitive tasks

• very inexpensive production costs

Examples of mass customization

• computers and automobile assembly
• soda and pencils
• Wedding cakes and draperies
• cinnamon rolls

Mass customization is

• Combines job production with mass production to customize products to suit individuals
• Used when a continuous conversion of inputs results in a continuous finished product.  Inputs may include heat, time, pressure
• Producing a one-off item specifically designed for the customer
• Products are made in separate groups with each group going through the complete process together

There are 2 methods of production

• True
• False

Which type of product would be made using flow production?

• Speciality Cakes
• Cars
• Chocolate Bars

Job Production is where the products are:

• All the same
• Unique
• Similar but some groups vary

Flow production is used when hundreds of items the same need to be made.

• True
• False

Batch Production is likely to be used at Cadbury's.

• True
• False

Flow production would be used for:

• Cans of Coke
• Fitted Kitchen
• Walkers bags of crisps