Production theory is the study of production, or the economic process of converting inputs into outputs. Production uses resources to create a good or service that is suitable for use, gift-giving in a gift economy, or exchange in a market economy. This can include manufacturing, storing, shipping, and packaging. Some economists define production broadly as all economic activity other than consumption. They see every commercial activity other than the final purchase as some form of production.

La productique est une démarche qui consiste à améliorer l'ensemble des méthodes et des moyens de production industrielle afin de maîtriser coûts, qualité et délais.