This module will require students to develop the ability to use appropriate techniques of analysis and enquiry within the management of operations, and to learn how to evaluate alternatives and make recommendations.
Indicative topics of the module are:
• Strategic role of operations and operations strategy
• Design of processes and the implications for layout and flow
• People, jobs and organisation
• Capacity planning and scheduling
• Inventory control
• Supply chain management, lean systems and digital operations
• Quality planning and managing improvement
Total contact hours: 21
Private study hours: 129
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment methods;
On-Line Test 1 (10%)
On-Line Test 2 (20%)
Examination, 2 hours (70%)
Reassessment method;
100% Exam
Core textbook:
Slack, N. et al. (2016). Operations Management. 8th edn. Harlow: Pearson
Further suggested readings:
Greasley, A., (2009/2013). Operations Management. 2nd or 3rd edn., Chichester: John Wiley and Sons.
Johnston, R. and Clark, G., (2012). Service Operations Management, 4th Ed, London: FT Prentice Hall.
Meredith JR. and Shafer, SM., (2009). Operations Management for MBAs (4th edn.), Chichester: John Wiley and Sons.
Slack, N. et al. (2012). Operations and process Management: principles and practice for strategic impact. 3rd edn, London: Prentice Hall.
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the field of operations management and how operations can more effectively contribute to the organisation's objectives;
- evaluate and apply a variety of techniques and analysis frameworks used by operations managers to help them make decisions in operations;
- understand decision making in the operations management function and its application to process, capacity, supply, quality and workforce management;
- utilise and assess appropriate concepts and models for the analysis and evaluation of operations management problems;
- through case study and exercise work, be able to investigate problems, evaluate solutions and present recommendations.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of problem solving and identifying appropriate solutions;
- communicate a range of complex information, ideas and solutions at an appropriate level for the audience;
- evaluate material and data, including the ability to apply critical thinking to a range of competing theories and frameworks;
- demonstrate initiative and personal responsibility in working and studying independently.
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