Chapter 9
Because problems with fixed-position layouts are so difficult to solve well onsite, operations managers: often complete as much of the project as possible offsite.
Balancing a work cell is done : as part of the process of building an efficient work cell.
A product-oriented layout would be MOST appropriate for which one of the following businesses? Steel making
Cross-docking refers to which of the following? Avoid placing materials or supplies in storage by processing them as they are received.
ASRS stands for which of the following? Automated storage and retrieval system
Warehouse layout
A big advantage of process-oriented layout is : it's flexibility in equipment and labor assignments.
A good layout requires determining : all of the above.
Ambient conditions; spatial layout and functionality ; and signs, symbols, and artifacts are all : elements of servicescapes
Cycle time is computed as : daily operating time divided by the scheduled output.
For which if the following operations would a fixed-position layout be MOST appropriate? Constructing a highway tunnel
In assembly-line balancing, cycle time (the ratio of available production time to scheduled product) is the : maximum time that a product is allowed at each workstation.
Chapter 9 Discussion Questions
1. what are the seven layout strategies resented in this chapter ?
Office layout, retail layout, warehouse layout, fixed-position layout, process-oriented layout, work- cell layout, and product-oriented layout.
2. What are the three factors that complicate a fixed - position layout ?
Limited space at sites, various material needs of different stages of a project, and the volume of materials needed is dynamic.
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of process layout ?
Advantages o Can simultaneously handle a wide variety of products and services Flexibility in equipment and labor assignments Disadvantages
Orders take more time to move through the system Requires high-labor skills WIP inventories are higher because of imbalances in the production process
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of product layout ?
Advantages Low variable cost per unit Low material handling costs Reduced WIP inventories Easier training and supervision Rapid throughput Disadvantages High volume required because of the large investment needed to establish the process Work stoppage at any one point can tie up the whole operation Process flexibility necessary for a variety of products and production rates can be a challenge
5. What are the four assumptions ( or preconditions ) of establishing layout for high volume, low variety products ?
Volume is adequate for high equipment utilization
Product is standardized or approaching a phase of its life cycle that justifies investment in specialized equipment Supplies of raw materials and components are adequate and uniform quality (adequately standardized) to ensure that they will work with specialized equipment
6. What are the advantages and disadvantages of work cells ?
Advantages Reduced WIP inventory Less floor space required Reduced RM and FG inventories Reduced direct labor cost Heightened sense of employee participation in the organization and the product Increased equipment and machinery utilization Reduced investment