What does throughput measure in a process?

Throughput is a key performance indicator in operations management that quantifies the efficiency of a process. It specifically measures the number of units completed per unit of time. This metric reflects the productivity of a system, indicating how many items a process can produce or handle within a given timeframe, such as per hour or per day.

Understanding throughput is essential for identifying bottlenecks, optimizing workflows, and improving overall productivity. By focusing on the volume of output relative to time, organizations can better assess their performance in meeting customer demand and adjusting production rates accordingly.

Recognizing the importance of throughput helps businesses fine-tune operational processes to enhance efficiency and meet strategic goals. Other options, while relevant to different aspects of operations, do not encapsulate the definition of throughput as effectively.