Final answer:
Shigeo Shingo developed the single-minute exchange of die (SMED) process for reducing setup times in manufacturing, enabling quicker and more efficient production changeovers. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The set of tools and methods developed by Shigeo Shingo for reducing setup time is called single-minute exchange of die (SMED). This methodology empowers manufacturers to reduce the time required to switch from producing one product to another, thereby increasing efficiency.
In contrast to the just-in-time delivery system and concepts such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) and design for manufacturability (DFM), SMED focuses on the rapid changeover of manufacturing processes. Evaluating production technologies and choosing the one with the lowest total cost is essential for efficiency and competitiveness.
An understanding of economies of scale further assists in determining the optimal scale of production, essentially the quantity of output that minimizes cost per unit, benefitting from the principle that larger scale operations can lead to reduced average costs. The correct option is c.