Section A: Key terms and recall
Define the term 'production'. [2 marks]
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Production is the process of creating goods and services to satisfy consumer needs. [2 marks]
What is the difference between production and productivity? [2 marks]
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Production is the process of creating goods and services, while productivity is a measure of the efficiency of production, calculated as output per unit of input. [2 marks]
List two benefits of increasing efficiency in production. [2 marks]
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Two benefits of increasing efficiency in production are: - Reduced costs [1 mark] - Increased profitability [1 mark]
What is lean production? [2 marks]
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Lean production is a production practice that considers the expenditure of resources for any goal other than the creation of value for the end customer to be wasteful, and thus a target for elimination. [2 marks]
Name one method to achieve lean production. [1 mark]
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One method to achieve lean production is just-in-time inventory control. [1 mark]
Section B: Applying your knowledge
A small bakery produces a variety of breads and pastries. Which method of production, job, batch or flow, do you think the bakery uses? Give a reason for your answer. [2 marks]
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The bakery likely uses batch production. This is because they produce items in groups or batches, such as baking a batch of croissants at a time, rather than individually (job production) or in a continuous process (flow production). [2 marks]
A car manufacturer is introducing a new model. The production process involves assembling different parts to create the final product. Which method of production, job, batch or flow, do you think the car manufacturer uses? Give a reason for your answer. [2 marks]
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The car manufacturer likely uses flow production. This is because the production process involves a continuous flow of parts and assembly, creating a finished product at the end of the line. [2 marks]
A local printer produces custom invitations for weddings and events. Which method of production, job, batch or flow, do you think the printer uses? Give a reason for your answer. [2 marks]
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The printer likely uses job production. This is because each order is unique and produced individually to the customer's specifications, rather than in batches or a continuous flow. [2 marks]
A furniture maker produces chairs in small quantities. Which method of production, job, batch or flow, do you think the furniture maker uses? Give a reason for your answer. [2 marks]
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The furniture maker likely uses batch production. This is because they produce items in groups or batches, such as making a set of six chairs at a time, rather than individually (job production) or in a continuous process (flow production). [2 marks]
Section C: Explain and analyse
Explain how technology has changed production methods. Give examples to illustrate your answer. [4 marks]
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Technology has changed production methods in several ways: - Automation: Machines and robots can now perform tasks that were previously done by hand, increasing speed and accuracy. For example, in car manufacturing, robots are used to weld car bodies together. [1 mark] - Computer-aided design (CAD): This allows for precise and detailed design of products, which can then be sent directly to manufacturing equipment. For example, in fashion, designers use CAD to create patterns that are then sent to cutting machines. [1 mark] - 3D printing: This technology allows for the creation of three-dimensional objects from a digital file. For example, in healthcare, 3D printing is used to create custom prosthetics. [1 mark] - Improved communication: Technology has improved communication between different parts of the production process, allowing for better coordination and efficiency. For example, in a factory, workers can use tablets to receive and update information about the production process in real-time. [1 mark]
Analyse the benefits and limitations of using automation in production. [6 marks]
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Benefits of using automation in production: - Increased efficiency: Automation can perform tasks faster and more accurately than humans, increasing the overall efficiency of the production process. [1 mark] - Reduced costs: Automation can reduce labour costs and the costs associated with human error. [1 mark] - Improved safety: Automation can perform dangerous tasks, reducing the risk of injury to workers. [1 mark] Limitations of using automation in production: - High initial costs: The cost of purchasing and installing automation equipment can be high. [1 mark] - Lack of flexibility: Automation equipment may not be easily adaptable to changes in the production process. [1 mark] - Job losses: Automation can lead to job losses, as machines replace human workers. [1 mark]
Section D: Challenge
A small business produces handmade candles. The business is considering expanding its production to meet increasing demand.
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Recommended production method: The business could use batch production. This is because the candles are handmade and similar in design, but produced in groups or batches. This method allows for some customisation and flexibility, while also increasing efficiency. [2 marks] Using technology to improve production: - The business could use a candle-making machine to speed up the production process and ensure consistency in the size and shape of the candles. [1 mark] - The business could use a computer to manage orders and inventory, allowing for better coordination and efficiency. [1 mark] - The business could use social media and online marketing to reach a wider audience and increase sales. [1 mark] - The business could use a website and online store to allow customers to place orders and make payments online, reducing the need for paper-based processes and improving efficiency. [1 mark]