Which layout concept is designed to minimize walking by workers performing several tasks with similar cycle times?

• A. U-lines
• B. Uniform plant loading
• C. Velocity
• D. Wall-2-wall inventory

Answer: (A)

Grouping workstations in a U-shaped arrangement is designed to minimize walking for operators who perform several tasks with similar cycle times. In a U-line, related processes are placed within easy reach, so a single worker can move a short distance and complete multiple operations in sequence without backtracking. This setup supports a steady pace (takt time) and quick handoffs, reducing motion and idle time when the tasks have comparable cycle times.

Other concepts address different aims. Balancing workload across stations helps avoid bottlenecks but doesn’t specifically reduce walking between tasks. Velocity relates to how fast materials flow through the plant, not the physical layout. Wall-to-wall inventory emphasizes storage location, which can increase walking to retrieve items. So the U-shaped line best meets the goal of minimizing walking for multi-tasking with similar cycle times.