The document discusses the operations function and its relationship to business objectives. It explains that the operations function transforms inputs like resources into outputs like goods and services. This allows a business to achieve its objectives by manufacturing products or providing services. It also distinguishes between tangible products that can be touched and intangible services. The operations manager is responsible for developing operational strategies to meet objectives like increasing productivity or competitiveness.

1. Lesson 1: Operations Function and
its relationship to objectives

2. • Explain the operations function and its relationship to
business objectives and business strategy!
!
• Describe the characteristics of operations management
within large-scale manufacturing and
service organisations!
!
• Explain the difference between tangible and intangible
products
What you need to know and be able to do

3. Operations management is all about manufacturing
the product (for a manufacturer) or creating the
service (for a service provider). Without a product,
the LSO would not achieve its objectives.!
What activities would operations management
involve?

4. The operations function or purpose is to transform inputs
(resources) into outputs (goods and services)

5. Business Objective Operational strategy to achieve
objectives
Increase productivity, raise
the amount of output for each
unit of input
Purchase new equipment that
can package in half the time
Increase business
competitiveness e.g.
produce better quality
product faster
Reject defective products
earlier in production process

6. Tangible and intangible products
Tangibles are goods, which can be touched.
Intangibles include services, which cannot be touched

7. Role of the operations manager

8. Exit Question
Explain the relationship between operational objectives,
operational strategy and the operations manager.
Answer should state:!
! •! An operational objective is an operational goal or aim that an
organisation plans to achieve.!
! •! An operational strategy is a plan of action to achieve
operational objectives.!
! •! The operations manager is responsible for converting
operational objectives into operational strategies.!
!
Award 1 mark for each link stated.