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Manufacturing is the process of transforming raw materials, components, and energy into finished goods through the coordinated use of labor, equipment, and information systems. It includes design-for-manufacture considerations, production planning, assembly or processing, quality control, packaging, and preparation for distribution. Manufacturing is fundamental to many industries, including automotive, electronics, food and beverages, chemicals, and consumer goods.

Manufacturing processes are classified by output type: discrete manufacturing produces individual items (cars, appliances), while process manufacturing yields bulk products (chemicals, fuels, food) often via continuous or batch operations. Common production layouts include job shops, batch production, assembly lines, and continuous-flow plants. Automation, robotics, and computer control increasingly integrate across these systems to improve consistency and speed.

Management approaches emphasize efficiency, quality, and flexibility. Lean manufacturing seeks to minimize waste and reduce cycle times; just-in-time inventory reduces stock; Six Sigma focuses on defect reduction; and Total Quality Management emphasizes customer satisfaction. Digital technologies associated with Industry 4.0—such as the Internet of Things, automation, data analytics, and additive manufacturing (3D printing)—are increasingly applied to design, monitor, and optimize production.

Performance in manufacturing is measured with metrics such as productivity, capacity utilization, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), along with defect rates and on-time delivery. Sustainability and governance considerations address energy use, emissions, waste, water use, and responsible sourcing. Compliance with standards such as ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management is common across industries.