The New Role For Operations Management

Today’s operations environment is a complex, fast-changing world where mistakes, even small ones, can be fatal for organizations. The Internet has accelerated that change and made competition more lethal.

The challenges for operations and materials managers are extreme, and the areas that must be mastered is increasing exponentially. These include the Internet, ERP systems, cellular manufacturing technology, robotics, environmental regulations, multi-cultural organizations, and new product development.

Mastering any one of these areas require college courses or special certification, and no one person can master them all. But somehow, operations and materials professionals must integrate all these functions into a smooth-running process that delivers products and services on a routine basis. In effect, they must become symphony conductors.