Economies of Scale
The cost advantages that arise from producing goods or services on a large scale. Individuals can take advantage of economies of scale by focusing on producing a limited number of goods or services, thereby increasing the volume of production. As the volume of production increases, the cost per unit decreases.
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CORE Econ
Economics
Introduction to Microeconomics Course
The Economy 2.0 Microeconomics @ CORE Econ
Ch.7 The firm and its customers - The Economy 2.0 Microeconomics @ CORE Econ
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Learning by doing
Difference in Ability
Economies of Scale
Which of the following are reasons why specialization increases production?
Why does specialization lead to increased production efficiency?
Which of the following best describes how 'learning by doing' contributes to increased production through specialization?
How does 'difference in ability' contribute to increased production through specialization?
Analyzing Production Methods
Match each production scenario with the economic principle that best explains its efficiency.
Bicycle Factory Productivity Analysis
In a specialized production environment, the cost advantages gained from purchasing raw materials in very large quantities are a direct result of workers becoming more proficient at their specific tasks over time.
A small, two-person artisanal bakery decides to specialize. Person A, who has a natural talent for intricate decorating, focuses solely on finishing the cakes. Person B, who is faster at mixing and kneading, handles all dough preparation. After a month of this new system, their overall output of cakes has increased. However, because their business is still small, their cost-per-unit for ingredients like flour and sugar has not changed. Which of the following principles explaining increased production from specialization is LEAST demonstrated in this scenario?
Assembly Line Efficiency Analysis
Learn After
What is the primary benefit of economies of scale?
Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the concept of economies of scale?
How do economies of scale affect the cost structure of a company?
Which of the following is a key characteristic of economies of scale?
Specialization as a Source of Economies of Scale
Input Efficiency as a Source of Economies of Scale
Engineering-Based Economies of Scale
Fixed Costs as a Source of Economies of Scale
Economies of Scale vs. Increasing Returns to Scale
Bargaining Power in Input Purchasing as a Source of Economies of Scale
Network Economies of Scale
Further Reading: The Economist on Economies of Scale and Scope (2008)
A large manufacturing firm is experiencing lower average costs as it increases its production. Match each specific cost-saving advantage the firm observes with the underlying principle that explains it.
A new company that manufactures custom-fit bicycle helmets invested heavily in 3D-printing design software and a major advertising campaign before producing its first helmet. As its sales grew from 100 to 10,000 units, it was able to negotiate bulk discounts on the raw polymer it uses. The company also found that its highly specialized, automated finishing machine, which was previously idle 80% of the time, is now in constant use. Based on this information, which of the following is the LEAST likely source of the company's decreasing per-unit costs?
Strategic Expansion and Cost Advantages
Strategic Expansion and Cost Advantages
Analyzing Cost Reduction at a Growing Company
Evaluating a Firm's Cost Structure