Describe the differences in production methods of Toyota (lean) and General motors (mass) and how the function of managers has changed.

The differences between these two production systems are very clear, in fact it can be said that they are the total opposite of each other in terms of their approach to, and methods of, production. One of several aspects of the Toyota production system that differ from The GM system is that Toyota puts a flow into the manufacturing process, while GM has lathes located in the lathe area, milling machines in the milling area …

…and that they are now much more feedback orientated and also focus more on motivation and satisfaction to improve productivity within the workforce. Management functions have also became a lot more involved with teamwork, including the workforce when solving problems which results in better solutions as it is the workforce who are producing the products so a solution that has been devised with their help will not only improve production but also enhance their motivation.