Factorys

A factory is a building or set of buildings where goods are manufactured, assembled, or processed from raw materials using machinery, tools, and human labor. Factories organize production at scale, typically featuring specialized workspaces, standardized processes, and supervision. While "factory" is the standard term, the spelling "factorys" is a common misspelling.

Factories originated during the Industrial Revolution, beginning in textile mills in Britain that adopted steam power and mechanized spinning. The shift from artisanal workshops to centralized production enabled higher output and uniform quality. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, factory design evolved with assembly lines, interchangeable parts, and later automation and robotics, which increased efficiency and reduced labor costs.

Operations in a factory involve input procurement, process steps, quality control, and finished goods handling. Production planning coordinates timing and capacity, while maintenance ensures equipment reliability. Modern factories frequently use lean manufacturing, just-in-time production, and computer-controlled systems to minimize waste and maximize throughput. Safety and environmental compliance are important considerations.

Factories operate across many industries, including textiles, automotive, electronics, chemicals, food and beverage, and consumer goods. They range from large multi-site campuses to small specialized facilities and contract manufacturers. Global supply chains connect factories worldwide, creating interdependencies among suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors.

Socioeconomic impacts of factories include job creation, skill development, urban growth, and regional development. They are subject to regulation on labor practices, safety, and the environment, and they face ongoing pressures from automation, offshoring, and globalization.