Mt435Case Study#2

Case Study #2 Written Assignment

Bobby Kelly

MT435 Operations Management

Kaplan University

October 16, 2015

Introduction

Albatross Anchor is a small family owned business in Smalltown, USA that began operations with four family members. Since 1976 Albatross has grown to a hundred and thirty employees. Albatross faces many challenges and as the KU Consultant I must address the direct long term and short term operational changes that Albatross Anchor need to be make. The changes in which Albatross Anchor is presented with will allow them to improve in areas of job retention, employee morale and employee dedication.

Question 1

Carefully review the assignment scenario/case study. From the limited information in the scenario/case study, identify at least three direct and specific long-term and three direct and specific short term operations changes that Albatross Anchor must make to gain a clear and sustainable competitive advantage (provide detailed information to validate and support each recommended change).

Long-Term Operational Changes

(01) Technology- Albatross Anchor struggles from the outdated equipment. As a consultant I recommend that Albatross update the technology throughout the facility. Although this would be expensive, this is something that would could be done over time and would enhance revenue. The Administration which is at the front of the building disorganized. The administration office would greatly be enhanced and organized if they were to use updated technology. The HR department needs to be capable of using software programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access, and Internet-related skills and techniques in order to be efficient and carryout the day to day functions. The manufacturing department which located behind the administration also is technology deprived. The inefficiencies of the older equipment causes downtime and longer production. It takes 36 hours to changeover from one anchor to the next. Newer...