In manufacturing, what does 'cycle time' refer to?

Cycle time refers to the total time taken from the start to the finish of a manufacturing process. This includes all the steps involved in producing a product, starting from the initial input or raw materials until the final product is completed and ready for delivery. Understanding cycle time is crucial for manufacturers as it directly affects productivity, efficiency, and lead times.

By analyzing cycle time, companies can identify bottlenecks, streamline processes, and optimize production rates. This holistic view of the process time helps in better planning and resource allocation, ensuring that production goals are met in a timely manner.

The other options focus on specific components of the manufacturing process, such as quality inspections, equipment repairs, and maintenance scheduling, which do not encompass the broad scope of time required for the entire production cycle.