Operations Management and TQM Overview
Operations Management and TQM Overview
Historical developments such as the Industrial Revolution, Scientific Management, Human Relations Movement, and Decision Models and Management Science have significantly shaped operations management by introducing efficiency, labor management, and decision science principles. The influence of Japanese manufacturers notably contributed to global practices, introducing concepts such as total quality management and lean manufacturing, thereby enhancing efficiency and quality in production processes worldwide .
Quality-based strategies focus on enhancing the quality of an organization's output by improving product/service features, standards, and customer satisfaction to remain competitive or meet industry benchmarks. In contrast, time-based strategies aim to reduce the time required for processes, such as introducing new products or responding to customer demand, to gain a first-mover advantage. Both strategies require different implementations, as quality-based strategies might involve training and process improvements, while time-based strategies require system efficiency and agility .
Productivity growth significantly impacts a nation by influencing economic performance and living standards. High productivity growth can lead to cost reduction and competitive advantages, benefiting both non-profit and profit sectors. In manufacturing, productivity is measured using ratios of output to various inputs, such as labor, materials, or capital. However, in services, measuring productivity is challenging due to varied inputs and outputs, such as in consulting or surgery services; hence, identifying efficiency improvements is crucial .
Modern operations management faces challenges including economic conditions, intense competition, technological innovations, environmental concerns, ethical issues, and cybersecurity threats. These challenges affect strategic decisions by necessitating adaptable and proactive strategies that address sustainability, ethical considerations, continuous innovation, and robust security measures to safeguard operations and maintain competitive advantage .
The main reasons for business failure related to operations management include poor execution of plans and inadequate management of operations. Organizations can avoid these pitfalls by fostering a culture of efficient execution, continuous improvement, and adaptability. Implementing sound operational practices, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives, and leveraging feedback loops for quality control and risk management are critical to sustaining success .
Cross-functional perspectives in operations management are important because they ensure collaboration among different organizational functions such as operations, finance, and marketing. This collaboration facilitates seamless processes and resource allocation, leading to enhanced efficiency, effective communication, and overall organizational success. By integrating diverse viewpoints and expertise, companies can optimize decision-making and operations to better meet customer needs and remain competitive .
Environment scanning, including SWOT analysis, assists organizations by systematically evaluating internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats. This analysis helps in strategic planning by identifying areas for growth, improvement, and risk mitigation. It guides organizations in aligning their strategies with capabilities, resources, and market conditions to optimize success and competitiveness .
The input-transformation-output process in operations management involves inputs being transformed through various processes to create outputs that provide value to customers. Inputs include capital, labor, and information, which are transformed into tangible goods or intangible services. Feedback is collected at different points to compare against standards, allowing for corrective actions to enhance quality and ensure the goods/services provide maximum value .
A mission statement plays a pivotal role in operations strategy by clearly defining the organization's purpose and serving as a foundation for its goals and strategic actions. It influences strategic development by providing direction and a framework for alignment, ensuring that operations strategies effectively support the organization's overarching objectives and competitive positioning .
Operations management strategies contribute to competitive advantage by aligning operations capabilities with the organization's goals, ensuring effective implementation of strategic plans. The specific strategies include low-cost strategies, achieved through cost reduction and economies of scale; differentiation strategies, which involve creating distinct products or services that excel in quality, features, or customer service; and responsiveness strategies, which focus on quickly meeting customer needs and demands. These strategies bolster competitiveness by improving efficiency, enhancing product/service distinctiveness, and increasing agility .