The document discusses three main types of production methods: batch production, flow production, and job production. Batch production involves making groups of similar products on the same line, while flow production makes identical products continuously on an assembly line. Job production makes unique custom products one at a time for specific customers. The key advantages and disadvantages of each method are outlined. The most suitable production method depends on various factors like workforce skills, available finance and technology, business size, product, and production quantities and quality standards needed.

1. Operations
Methods/Types of Production

2. Batch Production
• Groups of similar products made on the same
production line
• Products can change between batches eg from
bread to cakes in a bakery

3. Advantages
• A range of products can be produced which appeals
to more customers and increase sales
• Lower wages as staff need fewer skills as batch
production uses machinery

4. Disadvantages
• Repetitive work may result in bored, demotivated
staff
• Problems with machines can cause halt in
production
• Delays from changing machines to allow different
products to be made

5. Flow Production
• Similar to batch but identical products made all the
time on a production line

6. Advantages
• Low unit costs due to high production levels
• Economies of scale – technical, financial
• Capital intensive – largely operated by machines,
robots, computers so less staffing issues

7. Disadvantages
• Machines breaking down can halt production
• Work can be boring for staff leading to mistakes and
absence
• Unable to change production if change in demand
• Standard product may not suit all customers and
limit sales

8. Job Production
• One product is made at a time
• Product is unique and labour intensive
• Examples include jewellery, roads, football
stadiums, paintings, boats

9. Advantages
• Organisations can produce products to meet
exact customer requirements:
 this will mean increased customer satisfaction
 a higher price can then be charged.
• Allows the customers to change the design
during the process which allows for alterations
to meet customers’ needs
• The work is not repetitive and as such the
employees will be more motivated with
increased job satisfaction.

10. Disadvantages
• The wages paid will need to be higher to reflect staff
skills and this will increase the overall final price of
the product
• There can be higher than average research costs
which again will be reflected in the price charged to
the customer
• Time to make product can be lengthy and this
means that customers cannot simply walk in and
purchase the product.

11. Which Method of Production
used depends on
• The skills of the workforce – where low skilled
labour is
employed, a mechanised process may prove
more effective
• The finance that the organisation has available
• The technology available to be used in the
production method
• The size of the business
• The actual product being made
• The number of the product required for the
market
• Standard of quality required