Layout decisions
entail determining the placement of work stations, machines, part
stocking points, even slot machines in a casino. In general the
inputs to a layout decision include:
* Objectives to be used to evaluate the layout (e.g., $/square
foot for slots in the casino).
* Estimates of product or service
demand on the system (e.g., # of customers/hour).
* Space and processing
requirements for the elements in the layout
(e.g., how much space do different slot machines take up on the floor).
Formats for arranging elements in a facility
are defined by the general pattern of work flow. Three basic
types exist: workcenter, assembly line, and project layout.
Questions for Thought:
1. What type of
layout is the layout of the slot machines defined as (i.e., workcenter
or assembly line or project layout)?
2. How could a bad
layout effect efficiency, expenses, or profits? You can relate
this back to the casino example and Frank Rosenthal's (casino manager)
discussion in the movie clip.
3. What would be some of the demand estimates
that would need to be made to calulate the inputs for the layout
decision for slots in the casino? Think about what Frank
Rosenthal is saying about the different type of slot machines and what
they do to the bottom line (i.e., the "drop").