What is the difference between a processing operation and an assembly operation? A processing operation transforms a work material from one state of completion to a more advanced state that is closer to the final desired part or product. It adds value by changing the geometry, properties, or appearance of the starting material. An assembly operation joins two or more components to create a new entity, called an assembly, subassembly, or some other term that refers to the joining process. A processing operation transforms a work material from one state of completion to a more advanced state that is closer to the final desired part or product. It minimizes value by changing the geometry, properties, or appearance of the starting material. An assembly operation joins two or more components to create a new entity, called an assembly, subassembly, or some other term that refers to the joining process. A processing operation transforms a work material from one state of completion to a more advanced state that is closer to the final desired part or product. It adds value by changing the geometry, properties, or appearance of the starting material. An assembly operation joins one or more components to create a new entity, called an assembly, subassembly, or some other term that refers to the joining process. An assembly operation transforms a work material from one state of completion to a more advanced state that is closer to the final desired part or product. It adds value by changing the geometry, properties, or appearance of the starting material. A processing operation joins two or more components to create a new entity, called an assembly, subassembly, or some other term that refers to the joining process