CORE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT (RSM 1241)

Operations is the term that refers to the process by which organizations convert inputs (e.g., labor, material, knowledge, equipment) into outputs (goods and/or services) for both internal and external markets. In this broad-spectrum course we will study how to manage this process. We will study both strategic issues related to how firms determine how they will compete as well as tactical and operational decision making. We will consider issues related to designing, measuring, controlling and improving operations. Operations management was initially concerned with manufacturing operations. But many of the ideas developed have direct application in service operations such as health care, financial services and restaurant/hotel management. Within the context of the course, we will discuss several manufacturing and non-manufacturing environments, however, the emphasis of the course will be on the fundamental ideas that govern operations in an organization.

The objectives of this course are:

• to expose you to the main concepts of operations management.
• to provide you with tools which can be used in the management of operations.
• to develop your ability to analyze a process and present reasoned recommendations that address problems found