Batch production
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Batch production is a method used to produce or process any product in groups that are called batches, as opposed to a continuous production process, or a one-time production. An example of batch production can be found in a bakery. The products, for example bread, are made in batches of however many will fit in the bakers oven at a time. When that batch is made the baker will start the process again with a new batch.
Other typical small businesses that use batch production techniques are the manufacture of Inks, Paints and adhesives. Small businesses that manufacture inks and paints can compensate for some of the inefficiencies of batch production by using a technique call a color-run. A color-run is where you manufacture the lightest color first such as lite yellow first followed by the next increasingly darker color such as orange, then red and so on. This minimizes the clean up and reconfiguring of the machinery inbetween each batch until reaching black and then they start over again. White is the only color that you cannot use in a color run due to a fact that a small amount of white pigment can adversely affect the medium colors.
There are inefficiencies associated with batch production. The production equipment must be stopped, re-configured, and its output tested, before the next batch can be produced. There are several advantages of batch production; it can reduce initial capital outlay because a single production line can be used to produce several products. As shown in the example, batch production can be useful for small businesses who cannot afford to run continuous production lines. Also, companies can use batch production as a trial run. If a retailer buys a batch of a product and people don't buy them then the producer can cease production without having to sustain huge losses.Template:Tech-stub Template:Econ-stub