How scope of work is different with respect to `Production` and `Manufacturing` in Mechanical Engineering? as I have heard in some companies `Production` and `manufacturing` are two different department. | Q & A

In the field of mechanical engineering, the terms "production" and "manufacturing" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and scopes. Here's a detailed look at the differences:

Manufacturing:

Scope:

• Definition: Manufacturing refers to the process of converting raw materials into finished products through the use of tools, machinery, and labor. It involves the design, fabrication, and assembly of components and products.

• Focus: Primarily on the technical and engineering aspects of creating products, including the selection of materials, processes, and technologies.

• Processes: Includes a variety of processes such as machining, casting, forging, welding, forming, and additive manufacturing.

• Output: Produces tangible goods, ranging from small components to large machinery and structures.

• Activities:
  
  
  • Design and development of products and processes
  • Selection of materials and methods
  • Implementation of manufacturing technologies
  • Quality control and assurance
  • Maintenance of equipment and tools
  
  

Examples:

• Machining a metal part for an engine
• Casting components for automotive or aerospace industries
• Assembling electronic devices

Production:

Scope:

• Definition: Production is a broader term that encompasses the entire process of creating goods and services, from raw materials to finished products. It includes not only manufacturing but also planning, coordination, and control of the entire production process.

• Focus: On the overall management of the production process, including resource allocation, workflow optimization, and efficiency improvement.

• Processes: Encompasses manufacturing as well as additional activities like logistics, inventory management, supply chain management, and workforce management.

• Output: Involves the complete system of producing goods and services, ensuring that the right products are made at the right time, in the right quantity, and to the right quality standards.

• Activities:
  • Planning and scheduling production runs
  • Managing supply chains and inventory
  • Ensuring efficient use of resources (materials, labor, machinery)
  • Overseeing quality control across the production cycle
  • Implementing continuous improvement strategies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
  
  

Examples:

• Planning and scheduling the production of smartphones, including procurement of components, assembly, and quality testing.

• Managing the entire process of car manufacturing from material procurement to final assembly and delivery.

• Coordinating production activities in a pharmaceutical plant to ensure timely and quality-controlled output.

Key Differences

1. Scope:

   
   
   • Manufacturing is specifically focused on the physical creation of products.
   • Production includes manufacturing but also covers the broader aspects of managing the entire production system.
   
   

2. Focus:

   
   
   • Manufacturing emphasizes the technical and engineering aspects of making products.
   • Production emphasizes the management, planning, and optimization of the production process as a whole.
   
   

3. Processes:

   
   
   • Manufacturing involves processes like machining, casting, and assembling.
   • Production involves manufacturing processes as well as activities like logistics, inventory control, and resource management.
   
   

4. Output:

   
   
   • Manufacturing outputs tangible products and components.
   • Production outputs both tangible products and services, ensuring the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the production system.
   
   

5. Activities:

   
   
   • Manufacturing activities are centered around the creation and fabrication of products.
   • Production activities include planning, scheduling, managing supply chains, and optimizing production workflows.
   
   

Integration in Mechanical Engineering:

In mechanical engineering, both manufacturing and production are integral to the creation and delivery of products. Engineers need to understand and apply principles from both areas to ensure that products are not only made correctly and efficiently but also delivered on time and within budget. This involves a blend of technical expertise in manufacturing processes and strategic management skills in production planning and control.