Questions from General Operations Management

Q: What are the advantages of having computer-based forecasting packages handle

What are the advantages of having computer-based forecasting packages handle the forecasting effort for a business? What are the pitfalls?

Q: Explain the differences in using linear regression to develop a time series

Explain the differences in using linear regression to develop a time series forecasting model and a causal forecasting model.

Q: In this chapter, we defined a supply chain as a network

In this chapter, we defined a supply chain as a network of manufacturers and service providers that work together to create products or services needed by end users. What are some of the different sup...

Q: If forecasting is so important, why do firms look to approaches

If forecasting is so important, why do firms look to approaches such as CPFR as a way to reduce the need for forecasting?

Q: Some people have argued that the process of developing a sales and

Some people have argued that the process of developing a sales and operations plan is as important as the final numbers. How could this be?

Q: How does S&OP differ from strategic capacity planning? From

How does S&OP differ from strategic capacity planning? From detailed planning and control? What role does S&OP play in the overall planning activities of an organization?

Q: In general, under what conditions might a firm favor a level

In general, under what conditions might a firm favor a level production plan over a chase plan? A chase production plan over a level plan?

Q: Services, in general, cannot put “products” in inventory

Services, in general, cannot put “products” in inventory to be consumed at some later time. How does this limit service firms’ S&OP alternatives?

Q: Why has the implementation of S&OP been described as a

Why has the implementation of S&OP been described as a three-phase process? Briefly explain the three different phases.

Q: What are the advantages to a firm of coordinating its S&

What are the advantages to a firm of coordinating its S&OP process with key supply chain partners? What are the potential drawbacks?