Question

In the pull method of coordinating a production process:

A. departments early in the production process continually make components in order
to ensure that later departments do not run out.
B. nothing is manufactured at a work center until a need is signaled from a subsequent
process.
C. work-in-process inventories are increased throughout the plant.
D. production employees never have idle time, resulting in increased efficiency.
E. defective products are "pulled" off the line and sent to a special department for
rework.

Answer 1

The correct option is B). The pull method of production, such as JIT, requires manufacturing to initiate only when the subsequent process signals a need, thereby reducing inventory and improving efficiency.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the pull method of coordinating a production process, the correct answer is B: nothing is manufactured at a work center until a need is signaled from a subsequent process. This method is often used in just-in-time (JIT) production systems, where manufacturing occurs based on demand to reduce inventory levels and improve efficiency. This approach contrasts with the push system, where production schedules are based on forecasting.

The just-in-time (JIT) production process can have far-reaching impacts on the production cycle and worker dynamics. In the case of the auto industry, the adoption of JIT led to more efficient quality control but also subjected the supply chain to vulnerabilities such as strikes, which could halt production due to the lack of inventory buffers.

Another aspect of modern production practices includes specialization on assembly lines, and training workers to complete a few steps with increased efficiency and speed, leading to higher productivity in manufacturing finished goods.