Kapacitáshasználat

Kapacitáshasználat, which translates to "capacity utilization" in English, is a key economic and business metric that measures how much of a company's or a country's potential production capacity is actually being used. It is typically expressed as a percentage. A high capacity utilization rate indicates that a firm or economy is operating close to its maximum potential output, suggesting efficiency and strong demand. Conversely, a low rate implies that resources are underutilized, which can point to weak demand, production issues, or excess capacity.

Calculating capacity utilization involves comparing actual output with the maximum possible output under normal operating conditions. The definition of "potential output" can vary depending on the industry and context, but it generally refers to the highest level of output achievable without incurring excessive costs or compromising quality. For example, a factory might define its potential output based on its existing machinery, workforce, and operating hours.

High capacity utilization can lead to lower per-unit production costs due to economies of scale. However, extremely high rates, often exceeding 90%, can sometimes signal potential bottlenecks, increased maintenance needs, and a reduced ability to respond to sudden increases in demand. Conversely, low capacity utilization can result in higher per-unit costs and may indicate a need for strategic adjustments, such as reducing production, cutting costs, or finding new markets. Governments and central banks often monitor capacity utilization as an indicator of economic health and inflationary pressures.