9609 · 4.1.4
Operations methods: job, batch, flow, mass customisation flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9609 Operations methods: job, batch, flow, mass customisation (syllabus 4.1.4). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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Job production example?
Bespoke wedding cake, custom bridge engineering.
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Batch production example?
Bakery making 500 loaves then 200 croissants.
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Flow production example?
Car assembly line, soft drinks bottling.
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Mass customisation?
Customer chooses options; flexible manufacturing builds to order.
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Setup costs highest?
Job — each order reconfigured; flow has low per-unit setup.
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Flexibility highest?
Job, then batch; flow least flexible.
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Link to stock?
Flow often needs high finished goods stock; job = made to order.
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Marketing link?
Mass customisation supports differentiation (3.3.4 product).
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What is job production?
A production method where a business produces a single, unique product tailored to a customer's specific requirements from start to finish before starting the next. E.g., a bespoke suit, a bridge.
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What is batch production?
A production method where a limited number of identical items (a 'batch') are produced together. The equipment is then reconfigured to produce a different batch. E.g., a bakery making a batch of wholemeal loaves, then a batch of white.
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What is flow production?
A production method involving a continuous movement of items through a series of stages on an assembly line to produce large quantities of a standardised product. E.g., bottling Coca-Cola.
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What is mass customisation?
A production method using flexible, computer-aided systems to produce custom-designed items at a cost and speed close to that of mass production. E.g., customising a new car's features online.
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What is a key disadvantage of batch production?
The downtime required between producing different batches when machinery must be cleaned, reset, or reconfigured. This period is unproductive and adds to costs.