Nested production

Nested, non-rhthmic production - (non-pipeline, unique, unstable, short batches of products) - direction of products is variable and each workstation can work with different order of technological operations.

In non-rhythmic production workstations perform different, randomly assigned operations. The course of these operations in time is not regulated by periodically repeating schedules, and is largely accidental. Therefore, in the absence of periodically repeated schedule, workstations are separated with minimal ties and relationships.

Nested production may be performed in:

• in the cells divided according to the technological structure
• in the cells divided by product
• in production lines

Advantages and disadvantages of nested production

Nested production refers to a type of production process where a product is made up of multiple sub-components or subsystems, each of which is produced by a different supplier or manufacturer. Nested production can have several advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of nested production include:

• Cost savings: Nested production allows companies to take advantage of economies of scale and specialized expertise offered by different suppliers, which can lead to cost savings.
• Flexibility: Nested production allows companies to adapt quickly to changes in demand or product specifications, as they can easily switch suppliers or sub-components.
• Innovation: Nested production can lead to increased innovation, as suppliers are incentivized to develop new products and technologies in order to win contracts.
• Access to specialized knowledge: Nested production allows companies to access specialized knowledge and expertise offered by different suppliers, which can lead to improved product quality and performance.

Disadvantages of nested production include:

• Complexity: Nested production can be complex and difficult to manage, as companies need to coordinate the activities of multiple suppliers and sub-components.
• Dependence on suppliers: Nested production can lead to dependence on suppliers, which can make it difficult for companies to switch suppliers or sub-components if necessary.
• Quality control: Nested production can make it difficult to maintain consistent quality control across all sub-components, which can lead to product defects or failures.
• Risk of disruptions: Nested production can be vulnerable to disruptions in the supply chain, as problems with one supplier or sub-component can impact the entire product.
• Communication and coordination difficulties: Nested production can lead to difficulties in communication and coordination between different suppliers, which can impact on-time delivery and product quality.

Examples of Nested production

• Custom Cabinetry: Custom cabinetry is a type of nested production that involves building cabinets to fit a specific design and size. The process begins by assembling the frames for the base, sides and top of the cabinet. Once the frames are constructed, the shelves and dividers are cut to fit the cabinet and then the cabinet is sanded and stained or painted. The doors and drawers are then cut and assembled before the cabinet is finally assembled.
• Bespoke Tailoring: Bespoke tailoring is another example of nested production which involves creating custom-made clothing for a specific individual. The process begins by measuring the customer for the garment and then creating a pattern based on the measurements. The fabric is then cut and assembled to form the garment and any decorations or embellishments are put on. Finally, the garment is tailored to fit the individual's body shape.
• Custom Jewelry: Custom jewelry is yet another type of nested production that involves creating a custom piece of jewelry to meet the customer's specifications. The process begins by designing the piece based on the customer's requirements. The metal is then cut and shaped to form the base of the piece. Precious stones and other components are then added to the piece before it is polished and finished.

Other approaches related to Nested production

Nested production is a type of production which is characterized by non-rhythmic, non-pipeline, unique and unstable short batches of products. Its direction of products is variable and each workstation can work with different order of technological operations. Other approaches related to Nested production include:

• Process-oriented production - this method is based on the production of a single product, with the same technological process for each product. It is usually based on a linear sequence of operations, with one workstation specializing in a particular operation.
• Just-in-time production - this method is based on the production of products as close as possible to their delivery time. It is used to reduce costs, increase efficiency and reduce stock levels.
• Modular production - this method is based on the production of modules or components which can then be assembled into the desired product. It is designed to reduce costs, increase flexibility and reduce lead times.

In summary, other approaches related to Nested production include Process-oriented, Just-in-time and Modular production. All of these methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and can be used to reduce costs, increase efficiency and reduce lead times.

Nested production — recommended articles

Forms of production — Custom production — Group technology — Serial production — Production rhythm — Unitary production — Continuous process — Heijunka — Mass production

References

• Anderson, R. K., & Moroney, J. R. (1993). Morishima elasticities of substitution with nested production functions. Economics Letters, 42(2), 159-166.