Operation Management | Process Layout Design | Solved Example | Exercise
Process layouts are layouts that group resources based on similar processes or functions.
This type of layout is seen in companies with intermittent processing systems.
The challenge in process layouts is to arrange resources to maximize efficiency and minimize waste of movement. If the process layout has not been designed properly, many products will have to be moved long distances. Process layouts are very common:
A hospital is an example of process layout. Departments are grouped based on their function, such as cardiology, radiology, laboratory, oncology, and pediatrics. The patient, the product in this case, is moved between departments based on his or her individual needs.
A university is another example that Colleges and departments are grouped based on their function.
The objective in designing process layouts is to place resources close together based on the need for proximity. There are three steps in designing process layouts:
Step 1 Gather information (space needed, closeness measures by a from to matrix, relationship chart
Step 2 Develop a block plan or schematic of the layout.
Step 3 Develop a detailed layout.
