Estimates based on learning curve theory may NOT apply if ________.

Estimates based on learning curve theory may NOT apply if ________.

• A. The design of the product keeps changing
• B. The production volume is large
• C. The workforce is stable
• D. The supplier is local

Answer: (A)

Learning curve estimates depend on performing essentially the same production task repeatedly with a stable process. If the product design keeps changing, each new design alters the required tooling, setup, materials, and methods. That means you’re not observing the same task being done over and over, so the predictable pattern of incremental improvement with cumulative output doesn’t hold. In such a situation, prior learning data don’t reliably forecast future costs or times because the fundamental job itself keeps shifting. Large production volume, a stable workforce, and a local supplier all maintain the repetitive nature of the work and the consistency of the process, so they do not inherently disrupt the learning pattern.

Learning curve estimates depend on performing essentially the same production task repeatedly with a stable process. If the product design keeps changing, each new design alters the required tooling, setup, materials, and methods. That means you’re not observing the same task being done over and over, so the predictable pattern of incremental improvement with cumulative output doesn’t hold. In such a situation, prior learning data don’t reliably forecast future costs or times because the fundamental job itself keeps shifting.

Large production volume, a stable workforce, and a local supplier all maintain the repetitive nature of the work and the consistency of the process, so they do not inherently disrupt the learning pattern.