SRIRAM ENGINEERING COLLEGE

(A unit of Sriram Educational Trust)

Approved by AICTE, New Delhi &Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Year/ Sem/Branch: IV/VIII/MECH Date: 03.03.2023

IE8693/ PRODUCTION PLANNING AND CONTROL

QUESTION BANK STUDY MATERIAL – I

PART – A

1. Define – Production Planning and Control

Production planning control defined as Direction and coordination of firm’s resources

towards attaining the prefixed goals.

2. What are the objectives of production planning and control?

a. Systematic planning of production activities to achieve the highest efficiency in
production of goods/services.
b. To organize the production facilities like machines, men, etc., to achieve stated
production objectives w.r.t. quantity and quality time cost
c. Optimum scheduling of resources
d. To conform to delivery commitments. e. Materials planning and control.
3. What are the phases of PPC?
i. Preplanning
ii. Planning
iii. Control phase
4. What are the objectives of Standardization?
i) Interchangeability of parts, components, etc.
ii) Keeping the variety minimum.
iii) Helps to achieve a better control due to reduced variety.
5. What are the main functions of PPC?
1. Materials planning
2. Methods Planning
3. Facility planning
4. Process Planning
5. Estimating Planning
6. Scheduling and Loading
7. Dispatching
8. Expediting (Follow-up)
9. Inspection and testing
10. Evaluation
6. What is work sampling?
A technique in which a statistically competent number of instantaneous observations are
taken, over a period, of group of machines, process or workers. Each observations recorded
for a particular activity or delay is a measure of the percentage of time observed by the
occurrence.

7. What is PMTS?

A work measurement technique whereby times established for basic human motions are used
to build up the time for a job at the defined level of performance.

8. What is cycle graph?

It is a record of path movement, usually traced by a continuous source of light on a

photograph.

9. What is micro motion study?

It is used to make a detailed motion study employing either videotapes or motion pictures
operating at a constant and known speed, when picture camera is utilized for study, then the
procedure is known as micro motion study.

10. What is the various procedure of method study?

1. Select 2. Record 3. Examine 4. Develop 5. Define 6. Install 7. Maintain

11. What are the objectives of method study?

i) To present and analyze facts concerning the situation.

ii) To examine those facts critically.

iii) To develop the best answer possible under given circumstances based on critical
examination of facts.

12. Define –Standardization

Standardization is a process of defining and applying the conditions necessary to ensure that
given range of requirements can normally be met with a minimum of variety and in a
reproducible and economic manner on the basis of the best current techniques.

13. What is production?

Production consists of a series sequential operation to produce a desirable product acceptable

to customer and meets the customer demand, with respect to the quality and intended
function.

14. Differentiate dependability and durability

Dependability refers to the reliability with which the product serves its intended function

Durability refers to the length of the active life of the product under given working condition

15.What are the types of production?

1. Job shop production 2. Batch Production 3. Mass Production

16.What is Simo chart?

It is used to record simultaneously on a common time scale the activities of two hands or
other parts of worker’s body during the performance of single cycle of operation being
investigated.

17.What are the diagrams used for method study?

i) Flow and string diagram, ii). Models and templates, iii). Cycle graph and chronocycle
graph.

18. What is outline process chart?

The chart gives the bird’s-eye view of the whole process by recording only the major
activities and inspections involved in the process.

19.WHAT ARE THERBLIGS?

20. Define – Multiple Activity Charts

It is a chart on which the activities of more than one subject are each recorded on a common
time scale to shoe their inter relationship.

PART – B & C

1.What do you understand by production planning and control? Discuss its

Main elements or functions.

Functions of production planning and controlling is classified into:

1. Pre-planning function
2. Planning function
3. Control function
1. PRE-PLANNING FUNCTION
Pre-planning is a macro level planning and deals with analysis of data and is an outline of the
planning policy based upon the forecasted demand, market analysis and product design and
Feedback development. This stage is concerned with process design (new processes and
developments, equipment policy and replacement and work flow (Plant layout). The pre-
planning function of PPC is concerned with decision-making with respect to methods,
machines and work flow with respect to availability, scope and capacity.
2. PLANNING FUNCTION
The planning function starts once the task to be accomplished is specified, with the analysis
of four M’s, i.e., Machines, Methods, Materials and Manpower. This is followed by process
planning (routing). Both short-term (near future) and long-term planning are considered.
Standardization, simplification of products and processes are given due consideration.
3. CONTROL FUNCTION
Control phase is effected by dispatching, inspection and expediting materials control, analysis
of work-in-process. Finally, evaluation makes the PPC cycle complete and corrective actions
are taken through a feedback from analysis. A good communication, and feedback system is
essential to enhance and ensure effectiveness of PPC.
The functions of PPC can be explained with the following parameters:
1. Materials: Raw materials, finished parts and bought out components should be made
available in required quantities and at required time to ensure the correct start and end for
each operation resulting in uninterrupted production. The function includes the specification
of materials (quality and quantity) delivery dates, variety reduction (standardisation)
procurement and make or buy decisions.
2. Machines and equipment: This function is related with the detailed analysis of available
production facilities, equipment down time, maintenance policy procedure and schedules.
Concerned with economy of jigs and fixtures, equipment availability. Thus, the duties include
the analysis of facilities and making their availability with minimum down time because of
breakdowns.
3. Methods: This function is concerned with the analysis of alternatives and selection of the
best method with due consideration to constraints imposed. Developing specifications for
processes is an important aspect of PPC and determination of sequence of operations.
4. Process planning (Routing): It is concerned with selection of path or route which the raw
material should follow to get transformed into finished product. The duties include:
(a) Fixation of path of travel giving due consideration to layout.
(b) Breaking down of operations to define each operation in detail.
(c) Deciding the set up time and process time for each operation.
5. Estimating: Once the overall method and sequence of operations is fixed and process
sheet for each operation is available, then the operations times are estimated. This function is
carried out using extensive analysis of operations along with methods and routing and a
standard time for operation are established using work measurement techniques.
6. Loading and scheduling: Scheduling is concerned with preparation of machine loads and
fixation of starting and completion dates for each of the operations. Machines have to loaded
according to their capability of performing the given task and according to their capacity.
Thus the duties include:
(a) Loading, the machines as per their capability and capacity.
(b) Determining the start and completion times for each operation.
(c) To coordinate with sales department regarding delivery schedules.
7. Dispatching: This is the execution phase of planning. It is the process of setting
production activities in motion through release of orders and instructions. It authorises the
start of production activities by releasing materials, components, tools, fixtures and
instruction sheets to the operator.
The activities involved are:
(a) To assign definite work to definite machines, work centres and men.
(b) To issue required materials from stores.
(c) To issue jigs, fixtures and make them available at correct point of use.
(d) Release necessary work orders, time tickets, etc., to authorise timely start of operations.
(e) To record start and finish time of each job on each machine or by each man.
8. Expediting: This is the control tool that keeps a close observation on the progress of the
work. It is logical step after dispatching which is called ‘follow-up’. It coordinates
extensively to execute the production plan. Progressing function can be divided into three
parts, i.e., follow up of materials, follow up of work-in-process and follow up of assembly.
The duties include:
(a) Identification of bottlenecks and delays and interruptions because of which the production
schedule may be disrupted.
(b) To devise action plans (remedies) for correcting the errors.
(c) To see that production rate is in line with schedule.
9. Inspection: It is a major control tool. Though the aspects of quality control are the
separate function, this is of very much important to PPC both for the execution of the current
plans and its scope for future planning. This forms the basis for knowing the limitations with
respects to methods, processes, etc., which is very much useful for evaluation phase.
10. Evaluation: This stage though neglected is a crucial to the improvement of productive
efficiency. A thorough analysis of all the factors influencing the production planning and
control helps to identify the weak spots and the corrective action with respect to pre-planning
and planning will be effected by a feedback. The success of this step depends on the
communication, data and information gathering and analysis.

2. Explain the different types of production system.

Job shop production are characterized by manufacturing one or few quantity of products
designed and produced as per the specification of customers within prefixed time and cost.
The distinguishing feature of this is low volume and high variety of products. A job shop
comprises of general-purpose machines arranged into different departments. Each job
demands unique technological requirements, demands processing on machines in a certain
sequence.
Job shop Production is characterized by
1. High variety of products and low volume.
2. Use of general-purpose machines and facilities.
3. Highly skilled operators who can take up each job as a challenge because of uniqueness.
4. Large inventory of materials, tools, parts.
5. Detailed planning is essential for sequencing the requirements of each product, capacities
for each work centre and order priorities
Batch Production
American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) defines Batch Production as a
form of manufacturing in which the job pass through the functional departments in lots or
batches and each lot may have a different routing. It is characterized by the manufacture of
limited number of products produced at regular intervals and stocked awaiting sales.
Batch Production is characterized by
1. Shorter production runs.
2. Plant and machinery are flexible.
3. Plant and machinery set up is used for the production of item in a batch and change of set
up is required for processing the next batch.
4. Manufacturing lead time and cost are lower as compared to job order production.
Mass Production
Manufacture of discrete parts or assemblies using a continuous process are called Mass
Production
.This production system is justified by very large volume of production. The machines are
arranged in a line or product layout. Product and process standardization exists and all out
puts follow the same path.
Mass Production is characterized by
1. Standardization of product and process sequence.
2. Dedicated special purpose machines having higher production capacities and output rates.
3. Large volume of products.
4. Shorter cycle time of production.
5. Lower in process inventory.
6. Perfectly balanced production lines.
7. Flow of materials, components and parts is continuous and without any back tracking.
8. Production planning and control is easy.
9. Material handling can be completely automatic
3.Explain in Briefly Operation Process Chart
This is also known as outline process chart and it provides a compact over all view of
the whole system of operations involved in the production of a product. In this chart only the
main activities (i.e. operations and inspections) carried out to complete a job are recorded in
the sequence of their occurrence but irrespective of where they are performed and who
performs them.

Thus only symbols of process chart are used in preparing it. Sometimes a brief note about the
nature each activity (may be operation or inspection) and the time allowed are mentioned by
the side of symbols. The processing to material i.e. various activities are shown vertically on
the entry or purchase of material by horizontal lines as shown in Fig. The operation process
chart for the fabrication of a riveted assembly.

Advantages of process chart

1. To improve shop/plant layout

2. Helps in specifying the basic manufacturing system.
3. Helps in determining sequence of assembly and the scheduling activities regarding
dates of purchased material and completion dates for fabricated parts.
4. To introduce the new technical personal with the manufacturing system.
4. State and explain in briefly the steps involved in conducting the method Study
procedure

Method study, aims to achieve the better method of doing work, and for this reason method
study is sometimes called Work Method Design. Method study can be defined as the
procedure for systematic recording, analysis and critical examination of existing or proposed
method of doing work for the purpose of development and application of easier and more
effective method.

Procedure Involved in Methods Study:

The basic approach to method study consists of the following eight steps. The detailed
procedure for conducting the method study is shown in Fig.
1. SELECT the work to be studied and define its boundaries. The first step, once the Method
Study idea is conceived, is the orientation and determination of objectives. The problem must
be defined.
2. RECORD the relevant facts about the job by direct observation and collect such additional
data as may be needed from appropriate sources. When the job has been selected for Method
Study, the next step is to collect and record all the relevant data. The facts collected about the
existing method are subsequently subjected to a thorough examination with a view to
evolving improved methods. Hence, a clear and precise record is necessary, if method study
is to be effective.
3. EXAMINE the way the job is being performed and challenge its purpose, place sequence
and method of performance.
4. DEVELOP the most practical, economic and effective method, drawing on the
contributions of those concerned.
5. EVALUATE different alternatives to developing a new improved method comparing the
cost-effectiveness of the selected new method with the current method with the current
method of performance.
6. DEFINE the new method, as a result, in a clear manner and present it to those concerned,
i.e., management, supervisors and workers.
7. INSTALL the new method as a standard practice and train the persons involved in

applying it.

MAINTAIN the new method and introduce control procedures to prevent a drifting back to
the previous method of work.

6. Explain the Functions of Flow Process Chart

A flow process chart is a chart showing the sequence of the flow of a product by way of
recording all activities/events under review with appropriate symbols. This chart is similar to
operation process chart with the difference that it utilizes symbols of operation,
transportation, inspection, delay and permanent storage. The operation times and distances
moved are also recorded along the symbols side.

Flow process chart are of three types:

Man, Machine and Material. These charts are shown in Figures and the man type flow
process chart shows the process from the point of view of man/operator. It indicates the
activities of man throughout the process.

The machine type flow process chart shows the activities from the point of view of machines
involved. A chart for example of a boring machine will ignore the whole of activities except
the past in which boring machine is involved. It will not indicate any movement of men or
materials.

The material type flow process chart shows the process from the materials point of view
utilized during the process. It shows the introduction of all materials whether raw material or
finished components and represents all information regarding operations and inspections
carried out on the during process diagrammatically.

8.Explain in briefly the steps involved in conducting the work study procedure.

Definition: Work study may be defined as the analysis of a job for the purpose of finding the
preferred method of doing it and also determining the standard time to perform it by the
preferred (or given) method. Work study, therefore, comprises of two areas of study: method
study (motion study) and time study (work measurement).

STEPS IN WORK STUDY

 Select the job or process to be studied.

  Record from direct observation everything that happens in order to obtain data for
analysis.

 Examine the recorded facts critically and challenge everything that is done,
considering in turn: the purpose of the activity, the place where it is performed; the
sequence in which the elements are performed; the person who is doing it; the means
by which it is done.

 Develop the most economic methods, taking into account all the circumstances.

 Measure the amount of work involved in the method used and calculate a “standard
time” for doing it.

 Define the new method and the related time.

 Install the new method and time as agreed standard practice.

 Maintain the new standard practice by proper control procedures.

9. Write short notes on micromotion study

“Thus micro motion study is the technique of recording and analyzing the timing of basic
elements of an operation with the objective of achieving the best method of performing the
operation.

Micro motion study is one of the most accurate techniques of work analysis used for work
improvement. It makes use of motion pictures of the different activities or movement, so with
the help of camera. Very small time upto 0.0005 minute can be measured and recorded by
this system.
When picture camera is utilized, the procedure is known as “MICRO-MOTION STUDY”.
The motion time data from the film is transferred to simo chart. The simo chart data can be
further analyzed for the purpose of work place layout or method improvement.

Purpose of Micro Motion Study:

It can be used for following purposes:

1. To study the nature and path of movements for obtaining the elements of an operation.

2. To study the activities of the machine and the operator.

3. To impart training to the workers or operators regarding motion; economy so that

unnecessary movement by the workers may be avoided.

4. To study the relationship between the activities of operator and the machine.

5. To keep permanent record of the most efficient way of performing a task for future
reference.

6. To obtain motion time data for developing synthetic time standards for various elements.

7. For carrying out research in the field of method and time study.

10. Define time study. List down the various steps in conducting a stop watch time study

Procedure for conducting stop watch time study

1. Selection of task to be timed:

Select the task or job that needs to be timed for study purpose. There are various priorities on
the basis of which task or job to be studied is selected such as bottleneck 104or repetitive
jobs, jobs with longer cycle time, to check correctness of existing time, comparison of two
methods
2. Standardize the Method of Working:

Toachieve performance standard accuracy it is necessary to record the correct method of

working
3.Select the operator for study:
Select the consistent worker whose performance should be average or close to average so that
observed times are close to normal times.
4. Record the details
The following information is recorded on observation sheet:
Name of labour, task/job performed, department, section of work activity, general
information about activity performed etc
5. Break the task into element:
Each operation is divided into a number of elements. This is done for easy observation and
accurate measurement

6. Determine number of cycles to be measured

It is important to determine and measure the number of cycles that needs to be observed to
arrive at accurate average time
7. Measure the time of each element using stop watch
The time taken for each element is measured using a stop watch. There are two methods of
measuring. viz., Fly back method and Cumulative method. The time measured from the stop
watch is known as observed time.
8.Determine standard rating:
Rating is themeasure of efficiency of a worker. The operator„s rating is found out by
comparing his speed of work with standard performance. The rating of an operator is decided
by the work study man in consultation with the supervisor. Various rating methods used are
speed rating, synthetic rating and objective rating
9. Calculate the Normal timeThe observed time cannot be the actual time required to
perform the work for a worker. Therefore, Normal time needs to be calculated. Normal time
is the time that a worker takes when working at normal pace.

10 Determine the allowance

A worker cannot work all the day continuously. He will require time for rest going for toilet,
drinking water etc. Unavoidable delays may occur because of tool breakage etc. So some
extra time is added to the normal time. The extra time is known as allowance. It is generally
allotted as per the company policy

11. Determine the standard time

The standard time is the sum of Normal time and allowances.
Standard Time = Normal Time + Allowances

11. Describe the Samuel Eilon’s models for economics of a new product design.

1. To increase the profit of the organization

2. To avoid decline in sales of an existing model due to stiff competition
Samuel Eilon has proposed a model, which is based on the break even analysis to
determine whether the additional investment is desirable or not? Whether the new
product will be profitable or not?

FC –fixed cost s-additional investment made

P1, Q1-profit accrued and quantity sold before the additional investment
P2, Q2-Profit accrued and quantity sold after the additional investment
Now let us compare P1 and P2 and justify the new additional investment made
Slope of the breakeven point

ɸ =profit+ fixed cost

Quantity sold

ɸ=P2+FC+S
Q2

P2=ɸ2 Q2-FC-s
It is desirable that the new profit will be larger than, or at least equal to, the existing
one P2≥P1
Profit difference =P2-P1≥0
=(ɸ2Q2-FC-S)-(ɸQ1-FC)
=ɸ2Q2-ɸ1Q1-S≥0
Product development and design-Marketing aspect - Functional aspects- Operational

aspect-Durability and dependability aspect aesthetic aspect

What is Product Development?

Organizations have to come up with new ideas and new designs for their products. This is to
maintain its position in the market. Product development is the complete cycle of all such
steps. This starts from the conceptualization to the product deployment. The main goal of the
product development process is to develop products according to customer requirements.
This will, in turn, increase the market share of the company. But every product might not
satisfy all customer demands. So, companies carry out a thorough analysis of their customer
base. This helps them to identify their target market and develop products accordingly

Stages of Product Development

The different stages of product development are:

1) Idea Generation & Screening

2) Concept development
3) Business analysis
4) Product development
5) Test marketing
6) Commercialization

1) Idea Generation & Screening

This stage involves the search for new ideas about a new product. In most organizations,
there is an ideation team that develops the ideas. The employees may choose only a handful
of ideas. The R & D team may also develop these ideas. External sources
like their distributors and suppliers can also contribute. In most cases, these have
to meet client demands.
.2) Concept development
After selection of an idea, the company has to transform it into a concept. The marketer then
creates alternative product concepts from the new concept. The company then compares the
different alternatives. They observe whether these alternatives will meet the customers needs.
3) Business analysis
Here the officials analyse the sales, profit and costs associated with the product. By this, they
are able to understand whether the product is commercially feasible. Moreover, it has to meet
the users demands. For this, they conduct market surveys. Sales history of similar products is
also analyzed. Additionally, it is important to identify possible risks. This helps to reduce
problems and developmental errors in the future.
4) Product development
If the product idea passes through all the previous stages, it is converted into a tangible
product. This helps to check how well it might work in the market. Thus, the R&D team
might launch a prototype model of the product concept.
Additionally, the marketing team develops a strategy for distributing the product. The finance
team will calculate the finances associated with it. The advertising team will
develop astrategy for promoting the product. Here the design engineers transform the
performance specifications into technical specifications. The procedure involves
developing a prototype and testing it. Based on its performance, the designer revises the
design and retests it.
4) Testing
The prototype is tested many times before finalization. It is also tested in actual
market surroundings. This is required for gaining feedback from the target customer group.
5) Product launch
After finalization of all decisions, the product is finally launched for the target customers.
The entire management, marketing and production team will work together during this phase.
Roles of a product designer
Making product sketches by hand or by using software
Meeting clients and other employees to discuss the design
To work with product developers, engineers, and marketing staff
A designer also has to work with the finance team
Modifying the design based on the feedback received during the development stages
They also analyse designs of other companies and help in generating new ideas

6) Commercialization

After test marketing, the company officials get a basic understanding of how the product
might work in real life. So, before the commercialization of the product, all the
major decisions are taken. This will include the identification of the target markets. The
launch strategies are also prepared. After that, all the departments collaborate and
work on the produt

Role of a product developer

They analyze sales data, customer feedback, and product reviews. They also assess their
competitors products

Consulting the manufacturing, design, finance and engineering team to

developproduct specifications

Supervising the final design and evaluating the prototype

The developer submits proposals to the project head for reviewing. This enhances
thedevelopment process

The product developer prepares the final cost estimates for the production.

What is Product Design?

Product design consists of all the designing activities. These enable the designer to create the
look and feel of the product. These include deciding the architecture of the product and
choosing the required materials. It is also important to understand the best design that will

suit the customer. The aim is to develop a design that will appeal to target customers. Product
design is appliedin the following fields:

developing medical equipmenttablewarefurnitureelectronicskitchen

appliancesjewellery

Factors to be Considered in Product Development and Design:1. Product

Characteristics2. Standardisation 3. Product Simplification and Diversification:4.
Specialisation
1. Product Characteristics:

Many factors are to be analysed in connection with the product development and

design. Product characteristics is one of those factors.

The following four aspects are considered under product characteristics:

1. Functional Aspect 2. Operational Aspect 3. Durability and Dependability Aspects

4. Aesthetic Aspect

Functional Aspect:When the marketing possibilities of a product have been explored,

the functional scope of the product has to be carefully analyzed and properly defined. The
definition of the objective of a product does speak about the complete functional scope of the
product. A mixer, grinder, for example, has a clearly defined objective to grind and mix or
shake the various items. The mixer consists of a motor and a speed control unit but it has to
be designed so as to serve with all attachments. Now the customer has to decide and define
the functional aspect of the food mixer unit compatible with his requirements, taste and
paying capacity. Similarly in other products, the functional scope of the product/unit may be
in the form of detachable accessories attachments and the usage can be left to the customer
ecision. So the functional aspect is concerned with the ease and efficiency of the product
performance.

2. Operational Aspect:After knowing the functional aspect of a product, it is

relevant to consider theoperational aspect. It is not important only that the product should
function properly but is should also be easy to understand and simple to operate.Sometimes
the product has to be suitable for various operational conditions and very often it is subjected
to varying degrees of expertise of workers or operators. With this trend for increased
versatility of products, the products should be designed in such a way that by using basic
attachments it should be possible to build a suitable combination for specific
purposes. Thus the versatility of products/machines should also be analysed in the light of
above discussion. Especially if some operations are to be carried out with the aid of different
accessories or attachments, the designer should always bear in mind the time required for an
operator to perform the changeover operation. The tendency should be short get ready and
short put away period.

3. Durability and Dependability:The economic analysis of the cost of product is essential in

view of the fact that durability and dependability are closely related with the selection of
materials and workmanship. Since quality is the degree of perfection so it is not easy to
define this characteristic, but durability and dependability are the factors that often determine
quality of a product and thus have to be carefully considered by the designer

4. Aesthetic Aspect:Aesthetic aspect is concerned with the appearance and look of the
product. Where the dependability, durability, functional scope and operational aspects of the
product have already been defined aesthetic aspect is mainly concerned with final shape of
the product. Depending upon the man’s aesthetic taste gradual changes in appearance or the
product are taking place. In some cases, however, moulding of final shape of the product may
have financial implications for instance the product may require the addition of
some special materials and processes in addition to those basically required from the
operationaland functional point of view. In such cases careful cost analysis of the
aesthetic aspects will be required.
Product Development:
.In product development two aspects i.e.
(i) to modify the existing product for customer’s
satisfaction
(ii) to project a new product in the market in view of market survey reports, need
consideration.
Product is developed keeping in view essential requirements like:
(i) Keeping the costs as low as possible to earn profits.
(ii) To capture market by better sales.
(iii) Changing requirements of consumers regarding product characteristics.
To achieve these objectives the latest inventions/developments in the concerned field and in
the products available in the market must be considered

Disadvantages of Diversification:
(1) The manufacturing or production cost is increased.
(2) Diversification leads to large and varied inventories of inputs and finished items.
(3) A larger variety of equipment may be required.
(4) Highly skilled man power may be required.
(5) Difficulties of production planning will increase for achieving requisite production
by following diversifications.
(6) Training of man power is a problem.
When to Shift to Diversification:
4. Specialisation:
Specialisation means confining the production activity within a narrow field to
attempt and in many cases it may be proved to be extreme limit of standardization and
Simplification.
Specialisation means concentrating efforts on a particular field of action or towards a
specific attempt. Thus it is very much related to expert knowledge and skill. The
application of specialization depends on type of products being manufactured, process
used, function and type of the market apart from usual parameters. Product
specialisation is thus the ultimate objective of variety reduction.
Advantages of specialisation of methods of manufacture are:
(i) Lowers down the cost of finished products.
(ii) The workers specialised in a particular activity take smaller time to complete an
activity thus leading to higher productivity.
(iii) Improves product quality and saving in materials purchase.
(iv) Workers achieve a high skill and proficiency.
Disadvantages:
(1) Specialised labour and equipment are not flexible i.e., the switching over from one
specialised field to another is not possible.
(2) Specialisation may result in monotony.