... process based on flexible machines or systems has replaced mass production process based on assembly-line techniques; the use of a large number of semi-skilled or deskilled workers has been replaced by a combination of multi-skilled and unskilled workers during the labour process. In fact, the concept of post-Fordism has already gone beyond the manufacturing field that is previously dominated by Fordism, to an even comprehensive field, which includes the tertiary employment sector: the many types of services production, such as education, retailing or hospitals. In this sense, the post-Fordism is likely to shape the dynamics of the capitalist economic system to a broader scope than the Fordist style of organisation and work could do. However, many commentators (e.g. Kumar), argue that economies based on mass production are still common, while flexible firms, industries and economic systems are relatively few; manufacturing as a important means of sustaining a capacity to innovate ...

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