Flow production

Flow production, also known as continuous production or line production, is a manufacturing method used for high-volume production of identical or very similar products. In this system, products move continuously through a fixed sequence of operations, often on an assembly line. It's designed for efficiency, speed, and consistency, minimizing delays and work-in-progress inventory. Examples include car manufacturing or bottling drinks.

Advantages:

• Very efficient for large volumes, leading to lower cost per unit.
• High output and speed of production.
• Consistent product quality (less variation).
• Requires less skilled labor once the process is set up.
• Reduced work-in-progress inventory.

Disadvantages:

• Very high initial setup costs for specialized machinery.
• Lack of flexibility; difficult and costly to change the product design or vary production.
• Requires constant, high demand for the product.
• Problems at one stage can shut down the entire line.

A production flow chart is a visual representation of the step-by-step process involved in creating a product or delivering a service. In a business plan, it serves several purposes:

• Clarifies the Operations: It clearly shows investors, partners, and employees exactly how the product will be made or service delivered.
• Identifies Resource Needs: Helps determine what equipment, materials, and labor are required at each stage.
• Highlights Potential Bottlenecks: Can reveal inefficient steps or areas where delays might occur.
• Demonstrates Planning & Feasibility: Shows that the business has a well-thought-out plan for its core operational activities.

For businesses like a home bakery, a simple flow chart might show steps from ingredient sourcing, mixing, baking, cooling, decorating, packaging, to distribution/sale.