Managing Business Operations

BMAN20811 Managing Business Operations 10 Semester 1 Undergraduate Level 2 Ali Hassanzadeh Kalshani Unit coordinator Alliance Manchester Business School 1 FHEQ level (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) ' Middle part of Bachelors ' European Credit Transfer & Accumulation System Rating : 5.0 Operations Management and Strategy is a dynamic course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the critical role operations play in achieving organisational objectives. The course explores the design, planning, control, and improvement of operational processes in both manufacturing and service contexts, highlighting their strategic alignment with broader business goals. By examining real-world case studies, frameworks, and theories, students develop the skills to analyse and improve operations across diverse industries.This unit emphasizes the importance of ethical and sustainable practices in operations, linking operational decisions to social responsibility and global challenges, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students will gain insights into key topics like lean operations, supply chain management, inventory management, and quality control. Additionally, a guest lecture by an industry expert provides practical insights into the application of operations management concepts in professional settings. The course equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are highly valued by employers. By the end of the unit, students will be well-prepared to tackle operational challenges, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to organisational success in a variety of roles.  Operations Management and Strategy is a dynamic course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the critical role operations play in achieving organisational objectives. The course explores the design, planning, control, and improvement of operational processes in both manufacturing and service contexts, highlighting their strategic alignment with broader business goals. By examining real-world case studies, frameworks, and theories, students develop the skills to analyse and improve operations across diverse industries.This unit emphasizes the importance of ethical and sustainable practices in operations, linking operational decisions to social responsibility and global challenges, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students will gain insights into key topics like lean operations, supply chain management, inventory management, and quality control. Additionally, a guest lecture by an industry expert provides practical insights into the application of operations management concepts in professional settings. The course equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are highly valued by employers. By the end of the unit, students will be well-prepared to tackle operational challenges, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to organisational success in a variety of roles.  This unit aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of operations management as a critical organisational function that directly supports and drives strategy. By exploring key concepts and frameworks, students will gain the ability to analyse and evaluate operational processes in both manufacturing and service contexts. The course emphasises the role of operations management in achieving organisational objectives, focusing on how design, planning, control, and improvement contribute to operational success. Students will also be introduced to the strategic implications of these processes, preparing them to align operational activities with broader business strategies.In addition, the unit seeks to cultivate a deep awareness of the ethical and sustainable dimensions of operations management, recognising its significance in addressing global challenges. By linking theory to practice, the course encourages students to critically evaluate the impact of operations decisions on economic, social, and environmental outcomes. This holistic approach equips students with the skills and knowledge required to navigate the complexities of modern business environments, contributing to their professional development and employability. Understand the principles, frameworks, and techniques of operations management and strategy in both manufacturing and service organisations.Demonstrate knowledge of how operations management supports strategic decision-making.Evaluate the impact of ethical and sustainable practices on operations management and strategy.Critically analyse strategic and operational challenges in diverse business environments.Evaluate and compare different approaches to operations improvement.Synthesize case studies, readings, and theoretical concepts to make informed decisions regarding operational strategies.Apply operations management frameworks to real-world scenarios to design, plan, control, and improve operations.Develop and present solutions to operations management problems using evidence-based approaches.Use data and case studies to identify and implement best practices in operations management.Work effectively within a team to analyse and solve operations-related challenges.Communicate operational strategies and decisions clearly in written and oral formats.Demonstrate the ability to think critically and adaptively in problem-solving under time constraints.  Strategic Insight: Students gain a comprehensive understanding of operations management and strategy principles, enabling them to identify and address challenges in diverse organisational contexts. This knowledge is crucial for roles that require operational planning and strategic decision-making.Sustainability Awareness: By exploring ethical and sustainable operations practices, students align with the increasing demand for professionals skilled in sustainability and corporate responsibility.    Critical Thinking: Students develop the ability to evaluate operational frameworks and analyse organisational issues critically. This enhances problem-solving skills, a core requirement for roles in consulting, analysis, and managerial decision-making.Analytical Proficiency: The use of case studies and frameworks trains students in evidence-based evaluation, equipping them for analytical and strategic roles in business.    Applied Knowledge: Hands-on exercises, such as operations design, planning, and control tasks, ensure students are job-ready and capable of applying theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.Tools and Techniques: Familiarity with operations management tools enhances the students' ability to contribute effectively to projects, making them desirable candidates for roles requiring technical proficiency in operations.    Teamwork and Communication: Group discussions and collaborative exercises improve interpersonal and professional communication skills, essential for cross-functional team settings.Adaptability and Independence: The open-book exam and independent study requirements cultivate adaptability and self-management skills, which are highly valued by employers in dynamic environments.  Analytical skills Students develop the ability to evaluate operational frameworks and analyse organisational issues critically Group/team working Group discussions and collaborative exercises improve interpersonal and professional communication skills, essential for cross-functional team settings. Research The open-book exam and independent study requirements cultivate adaptability and self-management skills, which are highly valued by employers in dynamic environments. Introduction to Operations Management and StrategyLayout and Flow of OperationsLeanGreen Supply ChainsDigital Supply Chain ManagementMatching Supply and DemandInventory ManagementQuality ManagementRevision Session    Lectures (18 Hours total)Delivered face-to-face each week over nine 2-hour sessions.   Synchronous teaching method with interactive elements, including mini exercises for formative learning.   E-Learning via Canvas Notes, slides, and supplementary materials are uploaded at least 1 working day before lectures.    Asynchronous learning through access to reading materials, quizzes, and assignment briefs.     0 Other 100% Examination (80%) Multiple Choice Quizzes (20%) • In-class mentimeter quizzes:  Real time feedback on MCQ answers • In-class discussions : Real time in class discussion• MCQs: Feedback provided on answers• Exam performance feedback: Overall feedback provided to class Available as a free choice option to students who have received prior agreement from their registering School.   Y Operations Management (10th edition)Nigel Slack, Alistair Brandon-Jones, Nicola Burgess Assessment written exam 1.5 Lectures 18 Work based learning 1 0 79.5 InformationPre-requisites - NoneCo-requisites - N/ADependent Course Units - N/AProgramme Restrictions: Programme Restrictions: Available as a free choice option to students who have received prior agreement from their registering School. Not available to BSc in Management/Management (Specialism) and IM.Students who have taken BMAN24291 Operations Management and Strategy are not permitted to take this course unit.