Description
This course covers the essentials of the operating systems of manufacturing and service organizations that convert materials and other resources into finished goods and services. Topics covered include key performance metrics, process mapping and analysis, product and process design, new product introduction, supply chain management, plant location and capacity planning, total quality and effective resource management. The goal is to understand the concept of total product life cycle management, and the effect of strategy in the operations role, as well as tactical issues such as inventory control, quality assurance and operations scheduling. The course also discusses recent developments such as computer-integrated manufacturing, flexible-manufacturing systems, and just in time inventory. It considers the interrelationship of operations decisions with marketing, finance and the overall strategy of the organization.