1. Define sustainability and the “triple bottom
line” and how they relate to operations and supply chain management.
2. Explain why the need to focus capacity on a fairly
limited set of production objectives is the key to successful production.
3. Large plants can benefit from both economies of scale and
learning effects. However, can an economy of scope (flexibility) also be an
important variable in assessing competitiveness? Defend your response.
4. Discuss the challenge in managing complexity and
variability in support processes associated with service systems design.
5. Describe how OSCM provides a systematic means of
observing organizational processes.
6. Discuss how supply chain management is an important focus
as companies strive to be as efficient as possible.
7. What considerations must be made when a firm wants to add
capacity?
8. Can a learning curve analysis predict future performance
for a firm? Defend your response.
9. Explain the difference between make-to-order and
make-to-stock.
10. OSCM focuses on the conversion processes of the firm.
How does OSCM add value to the customer?
11. Work standards are the foundation of capacity and
production planning. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Defend your
response.
12. Provide a complete explanation of the product design
process.
13. Discuss the role of an activity map in illustrating the strategic
fit of a firm’s operations.
14. Discuss how operations and supply chain management has
evolved as a field.
