YOU ARE REQUIRED TO LOCATE A BUSINESS OPERATION IN YOUR LOCALITY(USA) TO ANALYZE FOR THIS COURSE. THE BUSINESS YOU SELECT CAN BE A RETAILING, SERVICE, OR PRODUCTION OPERATION

Assignment Brief

In this paper, you have to write a report that comprises of the description of the operational functions in APA format. Moreover, the operational functions include organization structure, operations strategy (strategic plan), leadership and management roles, quality control methods, aggregate planning process, etc.

Instructions 

YOU ARE REQUIRED TO LOCATE A BUSINESS OPERATION IN YOUR LOCALITY(USA) TO ANALYZE FOR THIS COURSE. THE BUSINESS YOU SELECT CAN BE A RETAILING, SERVICE, OR PRODUCTION OPERATION. IT MUST BE A LARGE ENOUGH OPERATION TO PERFORM ALL OF THE OPERATIONAL FUNCTIONS LISTED BELOW. THIS PROJECT IS DUE THE WEEK BEFORE FINAL EXAM WEEK. CHECK YOUR COURSE OUTLINE FOR THE DUE DATE.

PROJECT DELIVERABLES

FOR YOUR SELECTED OPERATION WRITE A COMPREHENSIVE SUMMARY REPORT THAT INCLUDES A DESCRIPTION OF THE FOLLOWING OPERATIONAL FUNCTIONS (THE REPORT SHOULD BE WRITTEN IN APA FORMAT):

• ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE
• OPERATIONS STRATEGY (STRATEGIC PLAN)
• LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT ROLES
• PROCESS FLOW/FACILITY LAYOUT
• WORK SYSTEM/JOB DESIGN
• QUALITY CONTROL METHODS
• FORECASTING METHODS
• CAPACITY PLANNING PROCESS
• MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS PLANNING PROCESS
• AGGREGATE PLANNING PROCESS
• INVENTORY CONTROL
• OPERATIONS SCHEDULING

BASED ON YOUR INTERVIEWS AND DISCUSSIONS WITH OPERATIONS PERSONNEL, AND YOUR OWN OBSERVATIONS, SELECT AN EXISTING OPERATIONAL PROBLEM THAT THEY ARE EXPERIENCING. DEFINE, ANALIZE, AND RECOMMEND A SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM USING METHODS YOU HAVE LEARNED IN THIS COURSE. INCLUDE YOUR RECOMMENDATION AS PART OF THE SUMMARY REPORT.

Sample Answer

Operational Analysis Report: Starbucks Coffee Company (USA)

Introduction

This report presents a comprehensive analysis of Starbucks Coffee Company, one of the most recognisable and successful retail operations in the USA. With thousands of locations nationwide and a strong presence in both urban and suburban markets, Starbucks was selected for this analysis because it is large enough to perform all core operational functions. The focus of this report is to describe Starbucks’ operational structure and performance through various aspects, including its organisational structure, operations strategy, process design, quality control, and more. The report also identifies a current operational problem and proposes a practical solution. All content is formatted in APA style.

Organisational Structure

Starbucks employs a matrix organisational structure that combines functional and geographical divisions. This structure enables the company to maintain consistent global standards while also allowing for local adaptation. Regional managers oversee groups of stores and report to corporate leadership. Store-level employees follow a clear chain of command from baristas to shift supervisors, store managers, and regional directors. This flexible structure promotes both efficiency and responsiveness.

Operations Strategy (Strategic Plan)

The company’s operations strategy is rooted in quality, customer experience, and sustainability. Starbucks aims to source ethically, support local communities, and maintain consistency in product and service delivery. It integrates its operations strategy with its long-term strategic plan, which includes digital transformation, drive-thru optimisation, and expansion into international markets. Starbucks also embraces lean principles to minimise waste and increase efficiency.

Leadership and Management Roles

Leadership at Starbucks follows a participative approach. Leaders are encouraged to inspire and empower employees through strong communication and goal alignment. Store managers are trained to manage team performance, provide coaching, and uphold Starbucks’ mission and values. Executive leadership, including the CEO, plays a strategic role in setting direction, promoting innovation, and overseeing global operations.

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