Caro-Lind Inc. manufactures personalized baby quilts. An experienced embroiderer can personalize 8 quilts per hour. Because the repetitive nature of the sewing can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, workers take a 20-minute break after every 8 quilts. Before beginning each batch of 8 quilts, workers spend 10 minutes cleaning and setting up their sewing machines. Calculate the standard quantity of direct labor for one quilt.

Zara, a global retail and apparel manufacturer based in spain that has successfully implemented this idea by having a continuous flow of new products that are typically limited in supply. zara has created a system that draws its clientèle into its stores, on average, 17 times per year as compared to 4 times per year for most stores. how is zara using it to gain competitive advantage? what specific technologies are used by zara to maintain this advantage over its competition?