* Assembly Line: Ford's revolutionary assembly line dramatically reduced the time and cost of manufacturing each car. Instead of workers moving around a car to perform various tasks, the car moved along a line, and each worker performed a single, repetitive task. This specialization increased efficiency and output significantly.
* Standardization: Ford focused on producing a single, standardized model (the Model T) rather than a variety of cars. This minimized the complexity and cost of production, allowing him to achieve economies of scale. Variations in models were avoided to streamline the production process.
* Vertical Integration: Ford controlled much of his supply chain, from raw materials to distribution. This ensured a steady supply of parts and reduced the cost of procuring them. He owned mines for ore, rubber plantations, and even his own railroad system to streamline production and cut out intermediaries.
* High Volume Production: The assembly line and standardization allowed Ford to produce cars at a much higher volume than competitors. This further reduced the per-unit cost, making cars more affordable.
* High Wages (Initially): While controversial, Ford's initially high wages (although they were later reduced) attracted and retained skilled workers, reduced turnover, and thus boosted productivity. The higher wages also created a consumer class that could afford the very cars they were producing.
* Efficient Management: Ford was a highly efficient manager. He relentlessly sought to improve processes and eliminate waste at every stage of production.
In short, Ford's success wasn't about any single innovation, but rather a systemic approach that combined technological advancement, organizational efficiency, and a focus on mass production to achieve unprecedented economies of scale, making the automobile accessible to a much wider segment of the population.
