Process layout, also known as functional layout, is a facility design where similar machines and equipment are grouped together, regardless of the product being manufactured. This arrangement allows for flexibility in production but can lead to longer material handling times and more complex workflow.
Here are some key characteristics of process layout:
Flexibility and Customization
- High Customization: Process layout excels in handling diverse products and customer orders. It allows for flexibility in production processes, enabling modifications and adjustments to meet specific customer needs.
- Variety of Products: Organizations employing process layout can manufacture a wide range of products, adapting to changing market demands and customer preferences.
Workflow and Material Handling
- Complex Workflow: The flow of materials and work in progress can be more complex and less predictable in a process layout. It requires careful planning and coordination to ensure efficient production.
- Longer Material Handling Times: Since machines and equipment are grouped functionally, material handling distances can be longer, leading to increased transportation costs and potential delays.
Equipment and Layout
- Specialized Equipment: Process layout often utilizes specialized equipment, each dedicated to a particular task or process, allowing for greater control and efficiency in specific operations.
- Open Layout: The layout is typically open, with departments or workstations arranged based on function rather than product flow, leading to a less structured and more flexible arrangement.
Examples of Process Layout
- Hospitals: Different departments like surgery, radiology, and intensive care are grouped together based on function, allowing for specialized equipment and expertise.
- Job Shops: Small-scale manufacturing companies producing custom orders often utilize process layout to cater to diverse customer needs and product variations.
In summary, process layout offers flexibility and customization but can lead to complex workflows and longer material handling times. It is well-suited for industries requiring high product variety, adaptability, and specialized equipment.
