Comparison of Product Layout and Functional Layout in Manufacturing

A comparison of product layout (line) and functional layout (process) in manufacturing can be made based on workflow, job movement, inventory requirements, machine utilization, capital investment, product quality, work flexibility, space requirements, time required for product completion, and worker skill.

S.no	Product Layout	Functional Layout
1	In product layout, similar machines are arranged in sequence for manufacturing the product.	In a functional layout, similar machines are grouped together in one location for manufacturing a product.
2	Product layout leads to transfer lines.	Functional layout leads to group technology.
3	Product layout is meant for mass production and has extremely limited job variety.	A functional layout is suitable for moderate production and a greater variety of jobs.
4	The workflow is smooth in the product layout.	The workflow is not smooth in a functional layout.
5	Job movement is significantly low.	Job movement is comparatively higher.
6	The inventory requirement is lower.	The inventory requirement is comparatively higher.
7	Full automation in material handling is possible in product layout.	Automation in material handling is not practical in a functional layout.
8	Machine utilization is poor in the product layout.	Machinery utilization is better in a functional layout.
9	Capital investment required is more in the product layout.	Capital investment for a functional layout is less than for a product layout.
10	A breakdown of one machine significantly affects the product layout.	Breakdown of one machine does not affect so much in functional layout.
11	Production planning and control are easy.	Production planning and control are comparatively complex.
12	The time required for completion of the product is less.	The time required to complete the product is more extended.
13	Product quality is not so good.	Product quality is better.
14	Less skilled workers are required.	High-skilled workers are required comparatively.
15	Work flexibility is very low in product layout.	Work flexibility is more in a functional layout.
16	The workspace required for the same amount of production is less.	Work space required for the production of the same amount of comparatively more.
17	Monotony in work is more prevalent because jobs are repetitive in nature and in product layout.	Monotony in work is less because jobs are non-repetitive in functional layout.
18	Product layout is used in mass production or assembly work.	Functional layout is used in job order production or maintenance work of a non-repetitive type.