Discussion #1 Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, read Chapter 1: Introduction to Operations and Supply Chain Management, and
Chapter 2: Operations and Supply Chain Strategies. Chapter 2, Section 2.3, covers customer value, value index, and the four performance
dimensions. Remember: operations and supply chains provide products or services that someone values. Most customers evaluate products
and services based on multiple performance dimensions such as quality, delivery speed, after-sales support, and cost. Assume you are going to
make a major purchase for your home, such as a major remodeling, new roof, carpeting, or furniture purchase. Select one of these projects and
then research two suppliers that will provide this product and service. Next, create a value index for each supplier using the table below. Rate the importance of each of the dimensions listed above on a scale from 1 (‘completely unimportant”) to 5 (“critical”) and determine the values for
each supplier. Post your table in the discussion forum and explain your value index concisely. Finally, explain how applying a value index can add value to you in your personal and professional lives. Calculating the Value Index for Two Alternative Suppliers Performance: 1 = "poor" to 5
= "excellent" Importance: 1 = "completely unimportant" to 5 = "critical" Performance Value Index Importance Supplier 1 Supplier 2 Supplier 1 Supplier 2 Performance quality Conformance quality Delivery reliability Delivery speed Cost Mix flexibility Volume flexibility Totals: Discussion #2 Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, read Chapter 4: Business Processes, and
Chapter 5: Managing Quality. Read Billy’s Hamburger Barn problem thoroughly, which can be found in Chapter 4, Section 4.2, Problem 1. Next, complete Part A and Part B. In Part A, you will be mapping the current process and determining the minimum cycle time and the longest cycle
time. In Part B, you will be evaluating a scenario where Billy’s Hamburger Barn redesigns their process and adds another attendant. Guided Response: Review several of your classmates’ posts and respond to at least two of your peers. You are encouraged to post your required replies
early during the week to promote more meaningful and interactive discourse in this discussion. Discussion #3 Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, read Chapter 14: Managing Projects, and . At the end of Chapter 14, complete Discussion
Question 3: What are the main advantages of using a network-based approach to project management rather than a Gantt chart?
Under what circumstances might a Gantt chart be preferable to a network-based approach?
Discussion #4 Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, read Chapter 3: Process Choice and Layout Decisions in Manufacturing and
Services, and Chapter 6: Managing Capacity, paying close attention to Sections 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3, reviewing the concepts of capacity, three common capacity strategies, methods of evaluating capacity alternatives, and decision trees.
Example 6.3 will provide you with two examples of decision trees (Figures 6.4 and 6.5). Next, at the end of Chapter 6, consider the two capacity
options for Arktec manufacturing from Problem 2 and the three possible demand scenarios from Problem 4. First, draw the decision tree for
Arktec Manufacturing. When drawing your tree, assume that managers must select a capacity option before they know what the demand level
will actually be. Then, calculate the expected value for each decision branch
. Which option would you prefer and why?
SOLUTIONS
Introduction to Operations and Supply Chain Management is a field of study that focuses on the design, planning, execution, and control of business operations to achieve organizational objectives. The field is concerned with the management of the entire supply chain, which includes all the activities involved in the production and delivery of goods and services to customers.
Operations and Supply Chain Management has become increasingly important in recent years due to the globalization of business and the growing complexity of supply chains. Companies are now required to manage their operations and supply chains more effectively to remain competitive in the global marketplace.
Operations and Supply Chain Management encompasses a broad range of topics, including forecasting, capacity planning, inventory management, production planning and control, quality management, and supply chain management. These topics are interconnected and form a cohesive system that allows companies to optimize their operations and supply chains for maximum efficiency and profitability.
The importance of Operations and Supply Chain Management is evident in its impact on various industries such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and service industries. Effective operations and supply chain management can lead to improved quality, lower costs, faster delivery times, and increased customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, Introduction to Operations and Supply Chain Management is a crucial field of study that plays a vital role in the success of businesses. The field is constantly evolving to keep up with the changing business landscape and the increasing demands of customers. Companies that can effectively manage their operations and supply chains are better positioned to succeed in today's competitive marketplace.
