What is Fixed Position Layout and process oriented layout? Discuss also Advantages and disadvantages with examples?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Fixed Position Layout
Definition:
In a fixed position layout, the product remains stationary at a fixed location, and the workers, materials, and equipment come to the product to perform their tasks. This layout is common for large, bulky, or heavy products that are difficult to move.
Example:
Construction of a ship, airplane manufacturing, or building a large bridge.
Advantages:
- Suitable for large, heavy, or complex products that are difficult to move.
- Allows customization and flexibility since workers and resources come to the product.
- Minimizes material handling as the product doesn’t move.
Disadvantages:
- High material handling costs because equipment and workers move to the product.
- Coordination and scheduling can be complicated.
- Requires a large space and careful planning to manage resources arriving at the product.
Process Oriented Layout (also called Functional Layout)
Definition:
In process-oriented layout, similar processes or machines are grouped together based on function. The product moves from one department to another based on the process requirements. This layout is typical in job shops or batch production where products have varying routing.
Example:
A hospital, machine shop, or custom furniture workshop.
Advantages:
- High flexibility to produce a variety of products.
- Efficient for low-volume, high-variety production.
- Specialized workers and machines can be grouped to improve skill and equipment utilization.
Disadvantages:
- Material handling costs are high due to movement between departments.
- Longer production time due to varied routing and waiting times.
- Complex scheduling and routing may lead to inefficiencies.
Summary
| Layout Type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed Position | Ideal for large, immovable products; flexible; less product handling | High resource movement costs; complex coordination | Shipbuilding, airplane manufacturing |
| Process Oriented | Flexible for diverse products; efficient for small batches; skilled work grouping | High material movement; longer lead times; complex routing | Hospital, machine shop |
