Management 357

MGNT 357: Operations Management

Prerequisite: MGNT 333

Credit Hours: (3)

Study of modern theory and practice for planning and controlling the operations function, both in manufacturing and service organizations. Quantitative tools of analysis used to support decision making in the various activities of operations management are reviewed. A business core requirement.

Note(s): Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning designated course.



Detailed Description of Content of Course

To introduce the student to contemporary issues in operations management that are applied in modern service and manufacturing organizations. Global and innovative issues in operations management are covered throughout the course. Also, the impact of operations management on various functional areas and the importance of cross-functional decision making are discussed.

Outline of major topics:

• Introduction to Operations Management, Productivity, Competitiveness, and Strategy Product and Service
• Design
• Process Selection
• Capacity Planning
• Location Planning and Analysis
• Quality Management
• Lean systems
• Statistical Quality Control
• MRP and ERP



Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Methods of instruction are designed to develop a knowledge base, enhance critical thinking, create an awareness of strategic value, and provide practical operations-related skills. Participation includes case studies, exercises, problem assignment, and periodic exams. An outside project may be included at the discretion of the instructor. Increased global competition has shaken the manufacturing sector of North America and changed the rules of the competitive game. In recognizing that operations are a competitive strategy, operations managers view international competition as a major area of concern in decision making. In this course, the world is treated as a global village and international issues are discussed throughout. Computer assignments may include spreadsheet applications, simulation games, or operations management software. Certain topics lend themselves to computer applications which are assigned at the instructor's discretion (see outline of major topics). The value of computer assignments is determined by the extent to which they contribute to the learning experience and can be applied similarly in a real operations environment.


Goals and Objectives of the Course


At the conclusion of the course, the student will be able to:

1) Categorize areas of operations management and describe his or her role in the operations situation using current information in the field.

2) Demonstrate the use of analytical tools and decision making processes in the scheduling, inventory, capacity, layout, productivity, and quality functions of operations management, lean operations and supply chain management.

3) Explain the role of innovation and the strategic importance of operations management in a highly competitive and global business environment.


Assessment Measures

Grading will be based on a combination of examinations, the student's participation in class discussions, oral presentations, writing assignments, and busines simulations or other projects as assigned.


Other Course Information


Review and Approval

April 18, 2016

April 2011

Fall 2010, reviewed and approved by the Department of Management faculty.

March 01, 2021