Mass Production

Effect on employment

Then:

> It led to an increase in jobs, as people would want to move to move to the city in order to be closer to the factories and their jobs. This meant that there was an increase in local populations in the cities, and fewer people living in the country. 

> There was an increase in local employment as factories had 24/7 shift patterns, meaning people were more incentivised to work hours which were best suited to themselves.

> The increased mechanisation split the workforce into high and low skilled workers, such as engineers and those who do repetitive work.

> It was an opportunity for jobs as it was after the war, meaning it gave a chance for local economies to boom and grow.

Now:

> Machines are much more efficient, and they don’t require breaks or a certain quality of working conditions, including not needing pay. This meant a decrease in employment as companies try to maximise their profits.

> Machines have the ability to maintain the same high standard consistently. This is due to evolving technology, meaning that machines are more desirable for companies, especially as their costs can be kept low.

> Fewer people are employed, as only a few people are needed, such as those to fix the machines are keep everything under control.

Effect on cost and quality of products

Then:

> Everything was made in a factory by the people, and was a repetitive process. Specialisation was a big method used in factories. However, this meant that morale was low as there wasn’t anything new to do regarding their job.

> Materials were becoming cheaper meaning that mass production started to increase…