Which layout groups facilities by similar types of work performed?

• A. Product Layout
• B. Process Layout
• C. Outputs
• D. Inputs

Answer: (B)

Grouping facilities by similar types of work performed is the idea behind a process layout. In this setup, departments are organized by function—such as cutting, milling, finishing—so workers and equipment with the same skills stay together. This arrangement provides flexibility to handle a variety of jobs and products, since many different workflows can pass through the same functions. It’s common in job shops or service centers where customization and variety are involved. In contrast, a product layout places facilities in the exact sequence needed to produce a specific product, optimizing for high-volume, low-variation production but sacrificing flexibility. Outputs and inputs refer to what a process yields or consumes, not how the workspace is arranged, so they aren’t describing layout.