Fordismus

Fordism is a system of industrial production and social organization associated with Henry Ford and the mass-production era of the early 20th century United States. It combines high-volume production of standardized goods, a moving assembly line, and specialized labor with a business model aimed at making mass consumption possible. Key features include the use of an assembly line for continuous, rapid production; standardized interchangeable parts; and a division of labor that reduces skill requirements and increases output. Fordism also relied on vertical integration and standardized product design, as exemplified by the Model T. A landmark policy was the five-dollar day introduced in 1914 to reward workers and reduce turnover, helping to expand domestic demand for the products.

The approach lowered unit costs, expanded the scale of production, and helped inaugurate mass-market consumerism and the growth of a pay-earning middle class. Fordism also shaped industrial organization, supplier networks, pricing, and the growth of franchise-based dealer and financing structures.

It attracted criticism for deskilling and monotonous work, perceived constraints on product diversity, and rigidities in the face of changing markets. After mid-20th century, Fordism faced challenges from global competition, automation, and the rise of flexible manufacturing, giving way to "post-Fordism" with more adaptable production and modular products.

In German-speaking and European discourse, Fordismus is used to analyze the convergence of mass production and mass consumption under capitalist modernity and its social implications.