SCM Ch 3

production line

A type of manufacturing process used to produce a narrow range of standard items with identical or highly similar designs.

batch manufacturing

A type of manufacturing process where items are moved through the different manufacturing steps in groups, or batches.

Hybrid manufacturing process

A genera; term referring to a manufacturing process that seeks to combine the characteristics, and hence advantages, of more than one of the classic processes. Ex: machining centers,group technology.

service package

A package that includes all the value added physical and intangible activities that a service organization provides to the customer.

cellular layout

A type of layout typically used in group technology settings in which resources are physically arranged according to the dominant flow of activities for the product family.

product-based layout

A type of layout where resources are arranged sequentially, according to the steps required to make a product.

functional layout

A type of layout where resources are physically grouped by function.

fixed-position layout

A type of manufacturing process in which the position of the product is fixed.

continuous flow process

A type of manufacturing process that closely resembles a production line process. The main difference is the form of the product, which usually cannot be broken into discrete units. Ex:yarns, fabric, food products.

machining center

A type of manufacturing process that completes several manufacturing steps without removing an item from the process.

group technology

A type of manufacturing process that seeks to achieve the efficiencies of a line process in a batch environment by dedicating equipment and personnel to the manufacture of products with similar manufacturing characteristics.

job shop

A type of manufacturing process used to make a wide variety of highly customized products in quantities as small as one. Characterized by general purpose equipment and workers who are broadly skilled.

cycle time

For a line process, the actual time between completions of successive units on a production line.

flexible manufacturing systems

Highly automated batch processes that can reduce the cost of making groups of similar products.

product family

In a group technology, a set of products with very similar manufacturing requirements.

takt time

In a production line setting, the available production time divided by the required output rate. Takt time sets the maximum allowable cycle time for a line.

downstream activities

In the context of manufacturing customization, activities that occur at or AFTER the point of customization.

upstream activities

In the context of manufacturing customization, activities that occur prior to the point of customization.

assemble-to-order products

Products that are customized only at the very end of the manufacturing process.

engineer-to-order products

Products that are designed and produced from the start to meet unusual customer needs or requirements. They represent the highest level of customization.

make-to- stock products

Products that require no customization. They are typically generic products and are produced in large enough volumes to justify keeping a finished goods inventory.

make-to-order products

Products that use standard components but have customer specific final configuration of those components.

law or variability

The greater the random variability either demanded of the process or inherent in the process itself or in the products processed, the less productive the process is.

back room

The part of a service operation that is completed without direct customer contact.

front room

The physical or virtual point where the customer interfaces directly with the service organization.