The aim of production is to successfully achieve the objectives set out through planning. This requires the application and execution of strict measures, since production involves a number of continuous phases in which coordination and precision are essential.
The first phase of production is modelling, which consists of obtaining the main work as well as the necessary plaster moulds. We then move on to the porcelain or faience filling. As the name suggests, this phase is characterised by the filling of the previously produced moulds. In the finishing phase, the excesses inherent to the process described above are eliminated. It is at this stage that the piece can be worked with specific tools for cutting or texturing.
It is then the transformation phase of any piece, being able to change, for example, a vase to a lamp, a smooth piece to a textured one.
The initial firing is taken immediately afterwards.
A selection of the product quality is made to filter out any defects the piece may contain before moving on to the next sectors. Subsequently, glazing consists of covering the pieces with an enamel suspension. There is also the decoration section, where all the detailed and creative work is carried out. All of this is done by hand, which is why our pottery can be so creative and distinctive.
Then we move on to the second firing. The next step is selection/quality control, where pieces are selected with the characteristics that meet internally defined standards and guarantee customer satisfaction and demands. Packaging is the last stage of the production process, which can vary according to customer requirements. It is essential to stress that the success of a company is achieved through collaborative work. Therefore, all employees are crucial for the successful completion of the phases already specified.
Text by Monica César, Planning and Production Control in Perpétua, Pereira & Almeida (S. Bernardo).