Production Structure

(of an industrial enterprise [association]), a complex of subdivisions and their relationship and ties in the process of manufacturing output. In organizational terms, each stage of the production process takes shape in the appropriate structural subdivision. The primary structural production unit is the workplace, where individual operations are carried out. Workplaces are combined into production sections, which are combined to form shops. In the shops, a product or part of a product is manufactured or a stage of the production process is completed. At large enterprises, shops are combined into blocks.

Depending on their role in the production process, production units are conventionally classified as primary, auxiliary, or servicing shops and sections. The primary subdivisions (preparatory, manufacturing, and assembly finishing) are involved in primary production. Manufacturing the products required for primary production is the responsibility of the auxiliary subdivisions (energy and repair systems, the production of instruments). The servicing links provide for the storage of raw materials and other products (the warehouse system) and the transportation and shipping of the objects of labor (the transportation system). In addition, the servicing links maintain the power system and other communications networks. The managerial bodies of the enterprise (association) organize, direct, and control the entire course of production.

The production structure is related to the location of the production links and takes shape as the enterprises and associations are designed or reconstructed. However, when a new product is developed or the production method or set of equipment is altered, it is necessary to reorganize the production links and the production structure.