Technology: the application of science or knowledge that enables people to do new things or perform established tasks in new or better ways.

• Using the latest technology can help a business gain a competitive advantage.
• Can allow businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively.

Manufacturing technologies include:

• Robotics: a programmable machine capable of doing several different tasks.
• Computer-aided design (CAD): a computerised design tool that creates products from a series of input data.
• Computer-aided manufacturers (CAM): software that controls manufacturing process.

Task design: how a task is classified and how it is to be performed by breaking it down into a series of steps.

• Demonstrates the interdependence of HR and Operations.

Process layout: the physical layout of machinery or equipment by their function. It deals with high-variety, low volume production.

• Process layout is different to production line or production layout where equipment and activities are organised in sequence.

Product layout: for mass production (assembly line)

Fixed layout: when a product remains in one location due to its size.  Employees and equipment come to the product.

Project production: deals with layout requirements for larger scale, bulky activities such as the construction of bridges, ships, aircraft, buildings. Employees and equipment come to the product.

Extract from Business Studies Stage 6 Syllabus. © 2010 Board of Studies NSW.