This unit aims to develop students’ advanced and critical understanding of operations and supply chain management within complex, globalised, and technology-driven environments. It equips students with the knowledge and analytical skills required to design, evaluate, and optimise operations strategies and supply chain networks to enhance organisational performance, resilience, and competitiveness.
The unit explores the strategic role of operations management, examining how organisations align operational capabilities—such as cost efficiency, quality, flexibility, and speed—with wider organisational objectives. Students will critically evaluate established operational models and methodologies, including Lean, Six Sigma, Just-in-Time, and Total Quality Management, assessing their suitability across different engineering and technology contexts and operational challenges.
A key focus of the unit is the design and improvement of supply chain networks. Students will analyse the structure and interdependencies of supply chains, evaluate risks and vulnerabilities, and apply optimisation techniques to improve cost efficiency, performance, and responsiveness. Emphasis is placed on developing resilient and adaptive supply chains capable of responding to uncertainty, disruption, and changing market demands.
The unit also develops students’ ability to apply data-driven approaches to operational decision-making. Learners will use performance metrics, analytical tools, and decision-making models to interpret operational data, evaluate alternatives, and support evidence-based managerial decisions. Critical consideration is given to data quality, reliability, and limitations, as well as the application of advanced analytical approaches to address complex operational and supply chain challenges.
Finally, the unit critically examines the integration of sustainability and emerging technologies within operations and supply chain management. Students will evaluate how innovations such as automation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, alongside sustainable practices such as circular economy principles and carbon reduction strategies, can be leveraged to create long-term competitive advantage. The unit encourages learners to assess the strategic, organisational, and ethical implications of adopting these practices within engineering- and technology-led supply chains.
Overall, this unit prepares students to operate at a strategic level by enabling them to critically evaluate, design, and implement effective, sustainable, and data-driven operations and supply chain solutions in complex engineering, technology and global business environments.