What production method refers to a combination of standardization and customization for efficiency?

The correct answer is mass customization, which refers to a production approach that aims to provide consumers with personalized products while still achieving the efficiencies associated with mass production techniques. This method allows businesses to produce goods in large quantities (preferring standardization) but also incorporates specific features tailored to individual customer preferences (reflecting customization).

Mass customization utilizes advanced technologies, such as flexible manufacturing systems and sophisticated software, which enable companies to offer a wide variety of options while maintaining cost-effectiveness and responsiveness to market demands. This combination supports consumer choice without sacrificing the economies of scale typically associated with mass production.

While mass production focuses solely on producing a high volume of identical products efficiently, mass customization balances that efficiency with the ability to meet individual customer needs. Make-to-order, on the other hand, creates products only after an order is received, which does not support the same level of efficiency as mass customization. Job production entails producing unique, custom items which is less efficient when compared to mass customization. Thus, the term mass customization best captures the essence of blending standardization with customization for efficiency.