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