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Textbooks speak of three methods of production - job, batch and continuous flow. This film shows how the methods work in the real work. Job V Batch: Job production is when you're making a one-off - anything from a dam to a musical instrument. Batch production is using the same equipment to make batches of different products. The biggest problem with batch production is the changeover - the time it takes to switch from making one type of product to another. Continuous: Continuous flow, mass production is the most well-known type of manufacturing. The making of the product is broken down into small, simple tasks, carried out by people - or robots. Choosing the method of production depends on many factors - from the type of product you're making to the capital cost and the size of the market. In Britain companies tend to go in for flexible manufacturing. The big question: But what about bigger questions, like the impact of different types of production on the environment and on society? Should we be aiming for sustainable production - making products locally and not for profit but for need?

Originally produced by TV Choice in 2009

Mode of access: World Wide Web