Group Technology and Productivity

Manufacturers are becoming increasingly interested in group technology (GT) because of its many applications for increasing productivity. It is an approach to manufacturing that seeks to maximize production efficiencies by grouping recurring and similar problems or tasks. Among the benefits of GT are: 1. time savings, 2. avoidance of duplication, 3. reduced materials handling costs, 4. improved quality, and 5. reduced need for floor space. An important aspect of GT is the use of a code, similar to a library reference system, which serves as an index to characteristics in manufacturing, purchasing, engineering, resource planning, and sales. It improves productivity accordingly in each of these areas. Possible problems in implementing GT include: 1. changing roles for manufacturing operators and new areas of responsibility for supervisors, 2. inability of codes to describe the material adequately, and 3. the need for a stronger emphasis on machine maintenance. Although a GT program can be costly to implement, the program will make contributions that grow over time.