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The need has long been recognised that organisations, irrespective of their size, are expected to operate to a world class by operational comparisons across industry lines. Techniques to implement quality, technological innovation, the optimal use of resources, distribution, service & supply chain management and a common sense approach to work place motivation, find a home within the ambit of the operations management portfolio.

Operations management endeavours to tie best practice into a strategic framework that encourages creative thinking at all levels in the organisation. The concept of being a ‘learning organisation’ is deemed essential at the present time. It merges the standards of manufacturing, good housekeeping, work safety and quality management with general business performance and organisational improvement. The structure of your operations function hinges upon critical aspects like flow design, planning & control and innovation, and given a structured, independent emphasis, it permits strategy a freer flow through the organisation.

Operations may also be viewed as being the custodian of competitiveness that is pitted against rivals in a strategic stance that merges production performance standards, on-time delivered product quality and cost-effective controls, all produced within a safe working environment. Operations touches all parts of your organisation from inbound to outbound logistics and onward through the continuum of the service warrantee. Its aim is to ensure the smooth and responsive relationship between internal and external interfaces.