In this course, I intend to bring the best out of it by applying skills, knowledge and understanding. These include timely and everyday attendance of lectures, discussions and self help activities. My knowledge of what is covered in the topic will be fostered through lecture attendance and discussions. Skills will be enhanced by constantly revising and referring to what was covered in class in addition to other external research. Operation management is a wide filed involving the designs, control, oversee and management of production processes or business operations. The field requires vast knowledge in design, and redesigning goods and services to meet the expectations of consumers while at the same time minimizing inputs. My aspirations to achieve the best out of this course will depend on the level of study, research, revision and discussions.
Operation management tends to differ with other specialized management techniques because it ranges from strategic to tactical to operational. Strategic examples include the location and size of manufacturing plants, tactical has to with layout and structure, while operational involve inventory management, quality management among others.
In the course of learning I engaged the class through question-answer interactions, PowerPoint presentations, and group discussions. In these sessions I covered the various aspects of management information systems and their relation with IT and IS. Of particular concern is the problems faced by operational managers using information systems to execute business/production activities. Operational managers have to counter issues relating to rights and obligations of individuals and organizations, accountability, systems quality, property rights and quality of life in their utilization of information systems.
Some parts of the course outline proved hard to understand and grasp relevant aspects. For instance, logistic management strategies including information forecasting, supply chain management, bull whip effect and resource utilization are challenging phenomenon. In order to bypass this hurdle, it would be more beneficial to increase learning materials accessible to students for a detailed inquiry. This includes adding relevant examples for students to relate on. Second, a field trip could be organized for students to have practical and hands-on experience with what goes on in the organization.
Measuring the future effects learned in the course material include efficiently tackling problems relating with the course. A well research and presented project is one way to signify that the concepts taught in the course was well learned. Another one includes efficient application of the knowledge learned in the field once employed. As a manager, the ability to resolve the issue of lack of communication or conflicting roles between various departments in an organization by choosing a sufficient information system or technology is a sufficient indication of a productive learning procedure.
In my opinion, I achieved the course outcomes as indicated in the Module. The course has, therefore, benefitted me as an individual as well as my colleagues. In spite of some difficulties in learning some concepts, I practically feel capable and competent to write and examinations, conduct a project, and apply the concepts about the course later in life. The difficulties encountered can be bypassed by engaging in more threaded discussion and using external research materials.
References
Glenn R. Lowry, R. L. (2007). Information systems and technology education. Idea Group Inc .
Ralph Stair, G. R. (2011). Principles of information systems. . Cengage Learning.
