Capacity utilization

Capacity utilization is an economic concept that describes the extent to which an enterprise or a nation uses its installed productive capacity. It is the relationship between output that is produced with the installed equipment, and the potential output which could be produced with it, if capacity was fully used.

Definition

The definition of capacity utilization is the percentage of the economic capacity that is being utilized from the total available capacity. In other words, it refers to the extent to which an organization or economy is using its existing resources such as labor and capital.

Measurement

Capacity utilization can be measured by the formula:

CU = (Actual output / Potential output ) * 100

Where CU is capacity utilization, actual output is the actual goods and services produced, and potential output is the maximum possible goods and services that could be produced.

Factors affecting capacity utilization

There are several factors that can affect capacity utilization, including:

• Demand: If demand for a product or service is high, a company will likely be operating at a high capacity utilization.
• Technology: Advances in technology can increase a company's capacity utilization by enabling it to produce more with the same amount of resources.
• Labor: The availability and productivity of labor can also affect capacity utilization. If a company has a highly skilled workforce, it may be able to operate at a high capacity utilization.
• Capital: The amount of capital a company has can affect its capacity utilization. If a company has a lot of capital, it may be able to invest in more equipment or technology, which can increase its capacity utilization.

Impact on economy

Capacity utilization has a significant impact on economic indicators, including inflation and unemployment. When capacity utilization is high, it can lead to inflation as companies may increase prices due to increased demand. On the other hand, when capacity utilization is low, it can lead to unemployment as companies may lay off workers due to decreased demand.

See also

• Economic indicators
• Inflation
• Unemployment

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  Graph showing capacity utilization over time.
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  Comparison of capacity utilization between USA, BRD, and England.
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  Photograph of Camassia quamash in bloom.