The Impact of Technology on Production (Cambridge International IGCSE Business)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2025-07-09
Technology & Production
Spec point —
4.1.3· How technology has changed and is changing production methods, e.g. using computers in design and manufacturing
Technology and production
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New technology is revolutionising flexibility in design and production
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Two examples of this are
- The use of computer aided design (CAD)
- The use of 3D Printers
1. Increased use of computer aided design
- The use of computers in design has transformed production by making it faster, more flexible, and more precise, helping businesses bring better products to market more efficiently
Computer aided design improves efficiency and accuracy
Key benefits of using computers in design
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Improved accuracy
- CAD reduces human error in measurements and design
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Faster design process
- Designers can create, modify, and test product designs more quickly
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Easy modifications
- Designs can be adjusted or duplicated with minimal effort
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3D modelling and visualisation
- Allows realistic previews of the final product, helping businesses test ideas before physical production
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Better collaboration
- CAD files can be shared digitally across teams, even globally
Impact on production
- Leads to faster product development
- Makes customisation of products easier
- Improves communication between design and manufacturing teams, especially when paired with CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
2. Increased use of 3D printers for production
- Digital designs are uploaded and the printer produces the product with minimal labour costs
- Digital printers have been used to print car engines, houses, food and more
The impact of 3D printing on production
| Impact | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cost | - Traditional manufacturing processes require expensive tooling and machinery - This is a significant upfront cost for small businesses - 3D printing reduces the cost of manufacturing as there is no need for expensive tooling |
| Productivity | - With traditional manufacturing, there are often long lead times for tooling and set-up - This can delay production - 3D printing allows quick production **with minimal lead times - New products are brought to market faster - Changing customer tastes can be catered to |
| Quality | - Traditional manufacturing may find it difficult to produce complex or intricate designs - 3D printing allows for precise and accurate** production of complex shapes and designs **, resulting in higher quality products |
| Flexibility | - Traditional manufacturing makes** customisation to meet specific needs of customers difficult - 3D printing allows for small production runs, which reduces the costs of a specific job production |
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