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Supplemental Lecture Notes -- Chapter 1

Chapter 1provides a broad introduction to Operations Management.  Highlights of the chapter include:

•  Operations as one of the three main functional concerns of most organizations
• The role of the operations manger as a lanner and decision-maker
• Different ways of classifying (and understanding) production systems
• Systems design vs. systems operations
• Major characteristics of production systems
• contemporary issues in the field
• management of operations
• the historical evolution of production/operations management
• Manufacturing vs. service operations

Pay particular attention to the section on mathematical models. how and why they are used in decision-making in operations management

Normally, we will approach a chapter by discussing one or more related cases via a threaded discussion.  You will also be expected to answer the questions found in the study guide  You can get to it by using your student disk found in the back of your text. You will find a folder on the disk entitled Outlines; within this folder, you will find a subfolder for each chapter.  The study guide/outline  for each chapter can be found within its subfolder.  You will be expected to a review sheet for each chapter.  You will need to turn them in upon request.

You may not be familiar with the term "agile" manufacturing.  It refers to an important concept--the ability to switch quickly and economically from one product  to another with very little disruption. Although we will not discuss this case (agile manufacturing) . you should read it thoughtfully and go out to the Ford web site in support of your reading.

When you have completed this chapter, check your understanding of the material covered by taking the Chapter 1 Self-Quiz.  This is located on your study disk in the Quiz Folder within the sub-folder for the  appropriate chapter.  It will be graded automatically upon completion..