Final answer:
An assembly line is a production method used to assemble a product efficiently by having each worker perform a specific task. Companies like Apple Inc. use a global assembly line for their products.
Step-by-step explanation:
An assembly line is a manufacturing process in which parts are added to a product in a sequential manner to create a finished product more efficiently. Developed around 1901, this method was pivotal in mass-producing vehicles affordably. On the assembly line, each worker, or a robot, completes a specific task; once a task is finished, the product moves to the next station and worker. This division of labor allows for speed and consistency in manufacturing.
For instance, Apple Inc. utilizes a global assembly line to manufacture its products, including Mac computers. Apple’s innovative process involves designing prototypes in the US, sourcing components internationally, and assembling in countries like Malaysia, showcasing a modern adaptation of the assembly line through global collaboration.
The use of assembly lines by companies like Apple exemplifies the division of labor, where specialized tasks are carried out by different workers to improve efficiency and productivity.