Production Methods Explained

Production methods determine how buildings operate, what resources they consume, and what goods they produce. Mastering production methods is essential for economic optimization.

What Are Production Methods?

Every building has multiple production method categories, each offering 2-4 options. These categories typically include:

• Base Production - What the building produces
• Automation - Labor vs machinery trade-offs
• Ownership - Who owns and profits from the building
• Infrastructure - Supporting systems and inputs

How to Choose Production Methods

Consider these factors when selecting production methods:

Input Availability

Can you reliably source the required inputs? Switching to a method that requires coal is pointless if coal is expensive or unavailable in your market.

Labor Supply

Do you have enough qualified workers? Advanced production methods often require engineers or skilled laborers. Check your Pop composition before switching.

Profitability

Will the building remain profitable with the new method? More efficient methods may require expensive inputs that negate the productivity gains.

Strategic Goals

Are you optimizing for employment, output, or profit? Different methods serve different objectives.

Common Production Method Patterns

Early Game: Labor-Intensive

Start with methods that employ more workers and require fewer advanced inputs. This keeps Pops employed while your economy develops.

Mid Game: Selective Automation

Gradually introduce machinery and automation in your most profitable industries. Prioritize sectors where you have input advantages.

Late Game: Full Optimization

With high literacy and technological advancement, switch to the most efficient methods across all industries.

Production Method Optimization Tips

1. Upgrade infrastructure first - Railways and ports enable better production methods
2. Monitor input prices - Switch methods when input costs change significantly
3. Balance employment - Don't automate so fast that you create mass unemployment
4. Specialize by region - Different states can use different methods based on local resources

Example: Iron Mines

An iron mine might offer these production method choices:

Base Production:

• Simple Mining (low output, many workers)
• Atmospheric Engine Pumps (medium output, requires coal)
• Bessemer Process (high output, requires coal and engineers)

Ownership:

• Privately Owned (capitalists profit)
• Publicly Traded (more investment pool contribution)
• Government Run (state profits directly)

The optimal choice depends on your coal availability, engineer supply, and economic system.

When to Switch Production Methods

Switch when:

• You've researched new technologies unlocking better methods
• Input prices have changed significantly
• You need to employ more/fewer workers
• Your economic system changes (e.g., new ownership laws)

Don't switch when:

• The building is already unprofitable
• You lack the required inputs or labor
• The change would cause mass unemployment without alternatives

Related Concepts

Production methods interact with:

• Technology - Unlocks new methods
• Laws - Determines available ownership structures
• Trade - Affects input and output prices
• Pop Education - Determines available workforce qualifications

Master production methods, and you master the Victoria 3 economy.