Sawmill illustrates the buzz about productivity

Article Abstract:

Willamette Industries Inc has enhanced the productivity of its lumber products by using state-of-the-art technologies such as laser sensors and computers. With the use of new sophisticated machines, the Dallas, OR- based sawmill can produce lumber with 20% fewer workers and 12% fewer trees than it did more than a decade ago. The laser sensors and computers are used to calculate the most productive way to saw a raw timber.

Production management, Lumber, Sawmills, Willamette Industries

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Computers complicate productivity

Article Abstract:

Economists and statisticians are having a difficult time in determining whether the increase in industrial productivity arising from the use of advanced technologies has resulted in enhanced quality or inflation. The accurate measurement of inflation and productivity is very important since the two provide an indication where the economy is headed. Difficulties in determining quality improvements and new and better products results in distortions in the Consumer Price Index.

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Worker output spurts, helps control inflation

Article Abstract:

The productivity of US workers increased significantly by 4.9% during the Jul-Sep 1999 quarter, the highest increase in almost seven years. The increase in worker output has held down production costs and inflation. The increase in productivity was simultaneous with a 0.2% decrease in unit costs at an annual rate while labor costs increased by just 1.5% in 1998. Some economists attributed the productivity increase to the heighthened usage of computer technology.

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