Newcastle University

Aims

The module gives an overview of theoretical material as well as the practical issues arising in the strategic management and operations management. It looks at strategy as the backdrop to and as directing the practice of operations management. The module stresses on case based learning and numeracy skills. Students are expected to use private study to widen their knowledge through directed reading.

Original Summary:

Outline Of Syllabus

Theme based organisation of study where design, competitive positioning and resource based view, learning, change, and managerial characteristics related domains from strategy are linked to their on ground manifestation in the practice of operations management. The operations management aspects will follow sequentially under themes that will be set in context using case studies. These will dwell into quality, cost minimisation, customer responsiveness and innovation. Application of basic quantitative techniques for designing and improving operations, including demand forecasting, queuing calculations, inventory management and capacity management will also be included under these.

Operations Management:
1.       Introduction of OM
2.       Product Management – design and costs
3.       Process Management - types of process, batch size and flow line
4.       Inventory management
5.       Layout design
6.       Scheduling
7.       Capacity

Strategy:
1.       Introduction to strategy
2.       The Strategy Elephant
3.       Competitive Strategy
4.       Corporate Strategy
5.       Strategising for growth
6.       Searching Vs. creating the Competitive Edge
7.       Innovative Strategies
8.       Strategising for beyond the Shores
9.       Strategic Leadership

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The 2 hour sessions will be formal lectures with some discussion and illustration of concepts and techniques. Lectures provide the basic concepts and frameworks. These contribute to the module’s intended knowledge outcomes. The seminars will consist of some group work and response to questions giving students the opportunity to use the basic concepts and frameworks. These contribute to the module’s intended skills outcomes.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The exams assess students’ breadth and depth of understanding of the key concepts and techniques in strategy and in operations management. The exams also assess numeracy skills associated with application of basic techniques in operations management.