Business

Chapter 8

Discussion Questions

1. Why would Rubbermaid-a successful U.S. company-need to expand and sell its product to customers in foreign countries?

Rubbermaid a successful U.S. company need to expand and sell its product to customers in foreign countries because they have the ability of expansion is the availability of advanced technologies such as computer aided designing, computer aided manufacturing, integrated information system, that can enable the firm to be more productive and competitive in the global marketplace.

2. What steps have U.S. firms taken to regain competitive edge in the global market?

The steps that U.S. firms have taken to regain competitive edge in the global market has been increasing productivity, Innovation, highly skilled individuals and reshoring. Although the number of manufacturing jobs has declined, productivity has increased. U.S. firms have found better ways to produce products. Today’s workers in the manufacturing sectors are highly skilled in order to operate sophisticated equipment’s. Lastly U.S. manufacturers are also bringing manufacturing jobs back to the United States.

3. Do certain kinds of firms need to stress particular areas of operations management? Explain

Certain kind of firms do need to stress particular areas of operations management depending on the firm and the kind of operation the firm runs. A basic understanding of mass production and the difference between a analytical process and a synthetic process is essential.

4. Is it really necessary for service firms to engage in research and development? In planning for production and operation control?

It is really necessary for service firms to engage in research and development because the goal of basic research is scientific advancement without regard for its potential use in development of goods and services. Research allows service firms to improve their quality of service to its customers. Once a new idea for a product...