Focus is on the key decisions managers make pertaining to computers and information systems. These relate to computer hardware and software selection, computer networks, industry and international standards and the management of information system organization. Major industry trends and vendor strategies are analyzed to understand likely developments. Topics include an introduction to hardware and programming, the selection of computer systems, networking and distributed systems, system implementation methods, database systems and social and strategic implications of information systems. Case studies, hands-on assignments in operating systems, host connection, database management and spreadsheet and computer-based projects.

The use of operations planning and control systems as particularly related to forecasting, scheduling and inventory control. Examination of a broad spectrum of inventory and scheduling problems, using actual cases. Analysis of current systems, including order-point and material-requirements planning systems. Integrates with related systems such as forecasting, capacity planning, distribution and purchasing. Includes recent developments in just-in-time manufacturing, pull systems of control and flexible integration.

Explores in depth the revolutionary methods of total quality management sweeping through industry worldwide. Theory and practice are combined by studying cases and examples from Toyota, Xerox, Ford, Citibank and others and critiquing in depth the ideas of Deming, Juran, Ishikawa, Taguchi and Crosby. Both manufacturing and services are studied, and links between operations, design, HR, marketing and procurement are emphasized. The focus is on the role of senior management in implementing total quality. Of particular interest to students in marketing, operations, management and those interested in careers in management consulting. The curriculum is enhanced by field trips and guest lecturers from industry.

Systems analysis is used to study strategic planning for both manu-facturing and service operations. Emphasis is on model building for short- and long-term planning and control. Design criteria for management information and decision support systems are developed that require the integration of marketing and finance with operations management decisions. The focus is on both start-up and operating of complex systems.

Coverage of the design and analysis of simulation models to support business decisions, with an emphasis on applications. Computer simulation is used to evaluate systems and strategies and to compare alternative operating policies. Applications are drawn primarily from operations management, but also from finance and marketing. The model-building process and relevant statistical issues are covered. Students also gain familiarity with special-purpose simulation software. Of particular interest to students focusing on management consulting and operations management.

The focus will be strategic deployment and management of innovation and technology for competitive advantage. This theme will be examined through an integrative framework pulling together various functional perspectives of operations, marketing, finance, research and development, design and engineering. We will specifically address the technology-strategy connection in light of technological change and its management. Developing, selecting, implementing, transferring and managing product and process innovations will also be emphasized. Specific issues of making process technology choices, economic justification and organizational infra-structure will be addressed. Additionally, quality management, performance evaluation, productivity management and human resource management, as aspects of operations, will be studied in light of advanced manufacturing technologies and automation.

Seminars deal with manufacturing and service-sector strategic planning, technology management, quality and productivity improvement, management information systems, management of service operations and field projects dealing with quality and process improvement.