Process layout

In industrial engineering, process layout is the floor plan of a plant, which is installed by industrial engineers to improve the efficiency by arranging equipment according to their functions[1]. In this layout, the main idea is to arrange or gather machines or equipments of the same function into one group or department.

Important facts:

  1. It is a flexible layout
  2. It is excellent for low to medium production quantity
  3. It is excellent for medium to high production variation
  4. The workers should be skilled and qualified
  5. It has a high work in process
  6. Its main disadvantage is the low production rate.

Effective Process Layout

1. Minimize material handling costs

2. Utilize space efficiently

3. Utilize labor efficiently

4. Eliminate bottlenecks

5. Facilitate communication and interaction between workers, workers and supervisors

6. Eliminate waste or redundant material

7. Promote product and service and quality

8. Provide a visual control of activities

References

  1. ^ Mikell P. Groover (2007). Work Systems: The Methods, Measurement & Management of Work. Prentice Hall. ISBN 9780131406506

Further reading