Global production and its effects on people and culture

• Developments in transport makes it easier for manufacturers to ship materials, components and products all over the world
• The global economy allows for materials and components to be sourced in one country, manufactured into products or part-products in another and then shipped all over the world
• Manufacturing costs can be reduced through automation
• Developments in mobile technology and the internet makes it easier to communicatee with people from all over the world. This leads to greater competition among manufacturers, which in turn keep prices low
• Imports of cheap products from overseas can lead to job losses in our own society.
• The use of mobile technology can make people feel isolated as the opportunities for face to face interaction are limited.
• The use of automation in manufacturing leads to job losses.
• Fewer people are needed in factories due to automation.
• Workers overseas are often paid low wages in an effort to keep costs down and maximise profit for the manufacturer.
• Designers need to be aware and sensitive to cultural differences.
• What is acceptable in one country may be offensive in another.
• The values, beliefs, and customs of different cultures should be respected.
• Global production is a threat to traditional industries, skills, and techniques in some developing countries.