(a) List and explain two factors that limit the application of division of labour.
(b) Enumerate two disadvantages of division of labour.
(c) Discuss five advantages of division of labour.
Explanation
(a) factors that limit the application of division of labour
(i) Size of market: The similar the market for the goods to be produced, the smaller the scope for division of labour
(ii) Production method/Technolooy: If the method of production cannot be subdivided into various parts, the scope of division of labour would be limited.
(iii) Nature of commodities: Production of customized goods and direct services does not lead itself to intensive division of labour
(iv) Non-availability of capital: Non-availability of sufficient capital to purchase materials and to pay salaries and wages will limit or discourage division of labour.
(v) Non availability of required skilled labour: This will make division of labour impossible
b. Disadvantages of division of labour
(i) It takes away the division discretion of workers thus making the mere tenders of machines/loss of craftsmanship.
(ii) It leads to monotony as a result of repetitive performance of a job.
(iii) It expresses workers to the risk of being immobile among different jobs/risk of unemployment.
(iv) It may lead to non-accomplishment of some tasks because of the absence of certain workers/interdependence of workers.
c. Advantages of division of labour
(i) Each worker is able to specialize in a productive activity that is his area of expertise.
(ii) The worker acquires more skills through repetitive practice on the job.
(iii) It saves time as workers are not moved from one job to another.
(iv) It facilities the use of machinery in production.
(v) It helps in creating employment opportunities as different parts of a job.
(vi) It promotes friendly relationship as workers depend on one another.
(vii) It leads to mass production of goods and services.
(viii) It can promote new discoveries and inventions/development of technology.