Problem
Analyze and explain how the operations function relates to other major business areas: marketing, finance, accounting, human resources, information systems, engineering.
Develop process and quality improvement methodologies.
Prompt: According to the text, there are five types of processes: continuous, assembly line, batch, job shop, and project. The continuous and assembly-line processes are suited to high-volume standardized products that are produced at low cost with limited flexibility. The batch process and job shop processes are suited to low- to moderate-volume products that are customized or produced in a high variety. The disadvantage of batch processes is the jumbled flow, which reduces throughput and efficiency. The project process is best for unique or creative products that are made one at a time. It requires intensive planning and scheduling and generally results in costly products or services. Choose one of the processes and find a real-world example of it in application. Be specific in identifying the organization, the actual process employed, the results as you analyze the selection, and lessons learned taken from the readings.