This module introduces the fundamental principles of Operations and Project Management. It focuses on the management of the firm (industrial, service, public sector or retail) at the micro level of the economy. The purpose of this module is to explore the basic theories and contemporary practice of Operations and Project Management. The module will therefore explore the development of operational and project strategies that are congruent with the company’s business and marketing strategies. This is then developed into an understanding of key operational and project management techniques to enable delivery of the strategy. Essentially the module comprises a series of themes: operations and project strategy, design, planning and control, and quality/improvement.The major topics covered are:
Operations and Project Management in Context
Projects and their relationship to operations
Operations and Project sustainability
Designing Business and Service Processes Organisational and leadership issues in projects
Product and Service development as a project
Planning and Controlling Resources for operations and projects, including inventory and capacity
management, CPA, resource scheduling and control
Risk in projects and operations
Developing Lean Operations Managing Quality Systems
These topics are taught in lectures, supported by in-class exercises and video discussions, and backed up by case study analysis.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Identify and evaluate the characteristics of operations and project processes and the various approaches, methodologies and techniques that may be adopted in their design and analysis;
Identify and critically appraise the competencies a project and operations manager needs and the organisational and leadership challenges they face;
Appreciate techniques and technologies available for the control of operations and projects, including the ability to systematically plan, schedule and control operations and projects using appropriate tools and techniques;
Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and understanding of conventional quality control and modern approaches to risk and quality management.