What is a product layout?

A product layout is characterized by an arrangement of equipment and workstations organized in a sequential manner that mirrors the steps involved in the manufacturing process. This type of layout is particularly effective for assembly line operations, where products move from one workstation to the next in a continuous flow. By aligning equipment and tasks in this way, efficiency is maximized because each workstation's function is directly related to the previous and subsequent steps involved in production. This sequential arrangement helps to reduce handling time, minimize transportation waste, and streamline workflow, ultimately leading to higher productivity in manufacturing environments where products are produced in large volumes.

In contrast, other layout types focus on different organizational strategies. For instance, layouts that group similar equipment together are typically more suited for job shops where a variety of products are made, not just one. Layouts that prioritize material storage do not emphasize the flow of production, which is central to a product layout. Lastly, cellular manufacturing structures are designed to optimize teamwork and flexibility in producing a variety of products, but they do not specifically adhere to the sequential arrangement captured by the product layout.