Certified Production & Operations Manager (POM) Practice Exam

What document instructs the production of a specific quantity of an item, usually following a schedule?

1. Bill of materials

2. Work order

3. Quality control report

4. Production plan

The correct answer is: Work order

The work order is the correct document that instructs the production of a specific quantity of an item, typically according to a set schedule. It serves as a formalized instruction to the production team, detailing what needs to be produced, how much of it is required, and when it should be completed. This guidance is crucial in a manufacturing environment, as it helps manage resources efficiently by ensuring that production aligns with demand and scheduling. In contrast, a bill of materials provides a list of all the raw materials and components needed to produce a product, but it does not specify quantities for production or timing. The quality control report focuses on assessing the quality of products produced, rather than directing production activities. A production plan outlines broader goals and strategies for manufacturing but lacks the specific instructions and schedules that a work order provides for daily operations.