My own workflow production process has five basic operations, which are shown in Figure 1. Taking in and storing raw materials - lumber, sheet goods, hardware, finishing supplies, etc. I decided to do intake at the bottom of the shop, and send the completed projects out at the top. That way the finishing area was close to the windows and the best light, while materials were stored in the darkest part of the shop. I could take materials in at one end and output finished work at the other, and work would flow in only one direction.
Shops come in all shapes and sizes.
In my shop the workflow can follow a straight path. Other workflow shapes are possible. A large rectangular room lends itself to circular pattern. Small spaces are of course more difficult to map a work flow pattern on. One of the hardest issues is how to leave enough final construction space.