Manufacturers arrange machines and employees to make them as _____ as possible.

The correct answer is rooted in the goal of manufacturing processes, which is to maximize output while minimizing waste and inefficiencies. When machines and employees are arranged for the highest level of productivity, it means that they are organized in a way that facilitates smooth operations, minimizes downtime, and allows for quick and effective workflow. This directly impacts the overall performance of the manufacturing process.

In this context, while cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and reliability are important aspects of manufacturing practices, the specific focus on productivity emphasizes the goal of producing the maximum possible output from given resources. Efficiency may relate more to the optimal use of resources, while cost-effectiveness focuses on maintaining low production costs. Reliability pertains to the dependability of machines or processes in consistently producing quality products. However, productivity encompasses all these elements to ensure that the manufacturing output meets or exceeds targets effectively.