Scales of Production and Sustainability in Design Technology
This section of the GCSE AQA DT knowledge organiser covers the four main scales of production and introduces sustainability concepts in design technology.
The guide explains the following scales of production in design technology GCSE AQA:
- One-Off Production: Creating a single, unique product, often for specific client needs.
- Batch Production: Producing more than one unit at a time in sets or batches.
- Mass Production: Manufacturing large volumes of products in highly automated factories.
- Continuous Production: Running production lines non-stop to meet constant demand.
For each scale of production, the guide provides product examples, advantages, and disadvantages, helping students understand when each method is most appropriate.
Example: One-off production is suitable for items like the queen's crown, wedding bands, and bespoke furniture.
Vocabulary: Batch production refers to making products in sets or batches, commonly used in bakeries and furniture manufacturing.
The guide then introduces the concept of sustainability through the Six Rs:
- Refuse
- Rethink
- Reduce
- Reuse
- Repair
- Recycle
Definition: Carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the actions of an individual, organisation, or community.
This comprehensive overview of production scales and sustainability principles provides students with essential knowledge for their GCSE design and Technology curriculum, enabling them to make informed decisions about manufacturing processes and environmental impact in their design projects.
