Split Learning Curves,
Abstract
The term 'learning curve' describes the improvement in efficiency of producing an item in quantities larger than one. Although the phenomenon has been known by other names and many different mathematical formulations on the learning curve have been developed, the basic concept is accepted throughout government and industry. Learning curve theory was developed from the observation that as more and more of the same item are produced, less time is spent on subsequent items. In a strict interpretation for a recurring production process, this theory would apply only to hands-on-labor. The theory has been developed and extended through the years to include cost improvements for recurring materials costs. In some cases rough analyses are made using only the total cost of an item when the detailed breakouts are not available.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA097005
Entities
People
- Allen Fatkin
Organizations
- Air Force Systems Command