Work cell definition

What is a Work Cell?

A work cell is a cluster of equipment and personnel that performs a specific task. A properly-configured work cell can increase the speed of a process, reduce error rates, and cut costs. The concept comes from lean manufacturing, especially in regard to how non value-added steps are eliminated from a process. In a production environment, work cell configurations can significantly cut back on the amount of inventory needed to manufacture goods.

A number of work cells may be grouped together to collectively manufacture a product. The concept is also used to deal with administrative tasks. Work cells can be designed so that they are readily re-configurable, thereby allowing them to be quickly adapted to changes in internal processes.

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