Manpower-intensive

Describing a process, industry, or activity that requires a large amount of human labor relative to capital investment or technological automation. These operations rely heavily on the physical effort and skills of a workforce, making them less automated and often more labor-cost dependent. They often involve tasks that are difficult or impractical to automate, requiring individual judgment, dexterity, or direct human interaction for successful completion. The productivity and efficiency are therefore strongly influenced by the quantity and skill of the available workforce.

Manpower-intensive meaning with examples

• Traditional agriculture is often manpower-intensive, requiring numerous farmhands for planting, harvesting, and tending crops, especially before the advent of modern machinery. Small farms, for instance, typically depend on the availability of seasonal workers for peak periods. This contrasts sharply with large-scale agribusiness using automated harvesting equipment and minimal human intervention.
• Construction projects, particularly in developing nations, are commonly manpower-intensive, relying on a substantial workforce for tasks like bricklaying, scaffolding, and site preparation. While there has been progress in mechanized construction, much of the work remains physically demanding and requires a large number of on-site laborers to complete complex tasks efficiently.
• Many service industries, such as hospitality and healthcare, can be categorized as manpower-intensive. Tasks such as customer service, patient care, and food preparation often involve a high degree of direct human contact and interaction, making automation impractical, thus requiring a significant number of trained staff.
• The garment industry, particularly in certain regions, often utilizes a manpower-intensive production model. Sewing, cutting, and quality control, frequently reliant on individual workers, mean production costs are tied strongly to labor costs. It is challenging to replace the human element involved in certain aspects of textile and clothing manufacturing, requiring significant human effort and skill.