Final answer:
The similarity between product focus and mass-customization lies in the use of modules to maintain efficiency while providing variety. Businesses tend to be successful when they focus on core competencies but must consider the right amount of product variety to meet customer needs without compromising efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the similarities between product focus and mass-customization is the use of modules. Product focus often involves creating products on a large scale efficiently, focusing on high volume and low variety, which aligns with the goal of producing a single or a few core products at a low cost per unit. Meanwhile, mass-customization attempts to offer variety through the use of modules, which allows for customized products while still maintaining some level of efficiency in production processes.
Businesses that specialize in core competencies tend to be more successful because they can optimize their processes for those specific products, leading to better efficiency. However, it is also important to consider the right amount of variety; too much variety can lead to inefficiency and increased costs. Ultimately, the balance between efficiency and variety will depend on customer demand and business strategy.