Project Description:
Write a comprehensive term paper based on your personal observation and analysis of the operational processes in a local business. This assignment will require you to conduct field research by visiting a business, interviewing key personnel, and observing operations firsthand. Integrate concepts from the lectures to analyze the efficiency and effectiveness of the business’s operational processes.
Requirements:
1. Introduction (1-2 pages)
· Provide an overview of the selected local business, including its industry, size, and market position.
· Explain the purpose of your paper and outline the main topics you will cover.
2. Observation and Data Collection (2-3 pages)
· Describe the methodology you used for collecting data. This should include the business you visited, the personnel you interviewed, and/or the operational processes you observed.
· Include detailed notes and observations from your visit, focusing on key operational activities.
3. Literature Review (2-3 pages)
· Summarize relevant concepts from Krajewski et al.’s textbook that will inform your analysis.
· Include at least three concepts that provide context or support for your observations and analysis.
4. Analysis of Operational Processes (2-3 pages)
· Discuss the specific operational processes you observed. These could include production, inventory management, quality control, supply chain management, etc.
· Analyze the efficiency and effectiveness of these processes using concepts from the lectures. Provide specific examples and data where possible.
· Evaluate any challenges or inefficiencies you observed and suggest potential improvements.
5. Personal Reflection (2-3 pages)
· Reflect on your experience visiting the business and observing its operations.
· Discuss what you learned about operations management in a real-world setting.
· Highlight any surprises or insights you gained that were not covered in the textbook.
6. Conclusion (1-2 pages)
· Summarize your findings and discuss the broader implications for operations management practice.
· Provide recommendations for the business based on your analysis.
Additional Instructions:
· Field Research: You must visit a local business and observe its operations firsthand. This cannot be completed through secondary research alone.
· Interviews: Conduct one interview with a key personnel member involved in the business’s operations if possible. Include their insights in your analysis.
· Detailed Observations: Provide detailed notes and observations to support your analysis. This should include specific operational processes and any observed challenges or inefficiencies.
· Personal Engagement: Reflect on your personal engagement with the business and the learning experience.
· Avoid Plagiarism: Ensure all sources are properly cited and avoid plagiarism by writing in your own words and providing proper attribution.
Grading Rubric:
· Depth of Field Research: The extent to which you engage with the business and gather detailed, firsthand information.
· Integration of Theory and Practice: How well you connect theoretical frameworks from the textbook with your observations and analysis.
· Quality of Analysis: The thoroughness and insightfulness of your analysis, including specific examples and data.
· Personal Reflection: The depth and honesty of your personal reflection on the experience and what you learned.
· Clarity and Organization: The clarity of your writing and how well-organized your paper is, following the outlined structure.