Resource Operations Management Processes And Supply Chains
Resourceoperations Management Processes And Supply Chains Ch 7read
Resource: Operations Management: Processes and Supply Chains, Ch. 7 Read Case: The PERT Mustang at the end of Ch. 7 (pp. 273). Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word paper in which you address the following points: Prepare the report that Vicky Roberts requested, assuming the project will begin immediately. Assume 45 working days are available to complete the project, including transporting the car to Detroit before the auto show begins. Discuss, briefly, the aspects of the proposed new business, such as the competitive priorities that Roberts asked about. Create a table containing the project activities used in the letter assigned to each activity, the time estimates, and the precedence relationships from which you will assemble the network diagram. Draw a network diagram of the project similar to Figure 7.3. Determine the activities on the critical path and the estimated slack for each activity.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
The automotive industry is highly competitive, necessitating efficient project management to meet tight schedules and deliver quality products. Vicky Roberts seeks a comprehensive project plan to execute a vehicle modification and transportation for an upcoming auto show in Detroit. This paper aims to develop a detailed project report based on the provided case, including activity sequencing, network diagram creation, critical path determination, and considering the company's strategic priorities. The project must be completed within 45 working days, accommodating transportation and other related activities.
Aspects of the Proposed Business and Competitive Priorities
Understanding the core aspects of the new business initiative is essential for aligning project management with strategic goals. The proposed venture involves customizing a vehicle, preparing it for the auto show, and transporting it to Detroit. The primary competitive priorities in this context include delivery speed, flexibility, quality, and cost efficiency. Speed is crucial to meet the tight schedule, especially with the transportation deadline. Flexibility pertains to the ability to adapt modifications as per client specifications or unforeseen challenges. Quality ensures that the vehicle meets high standards demanded at auto shows, reflecting positively on the company's brand. Cost considerations influence decisions related to resource allocation and process efficiency.
Project Activities, Time Estimates, and Precedence Relationships
To structure the project, identifiable activities and their relationships are outlined in the table below. These activities are derived from the case letter explanation, each with associated time estimates, and their precedence is established based on project flow logic.
| Activity | Description | Time Estimate (Days) | Predecessor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Order parts and components | 3 | -- |
| B | Fabricate custom parts | 7 | A |
| C | Paint and finish the vehicle | 5 | B |
| D | Conduct quality inspection | 2 | C |
| E | Transport vehicle to Detroit | 4 | D |
| F | Setup display and showcase | 5 | D |
Network Diagram Construction
Using these activities and dependencies, a network diagram similar to Figure 7.3 in the textbook is constructed. The diagram visually represents the activity sequence, highlighting the path from project start to completion. The critical path analysis identifies the sequence of activities with the longest duration, determining the minimum project duration.
Critical Path and Slack Calculation
The critical path is derived by summing activity durations along all paths and identifying the one with the highest total. In this case, the path A-B-C-D-E illustrates the critical sequence, with a total duration of 3 + 7 + 5 + 2 + 4 = 21 days. Activities on this path have zero slack, indicating that delays in these activities will extend the overall project duration. Non-critical activities, such as setup display (F), have slack time, providing flexibility to adjust schedules if needed.
Discussion
Meeting the 45-day deadline requires vigilant oversight of the critical path activities, ensuring they stay on schedule. The project plan incorporates buffer times and contingency strategies to address potential delays, especially in fabrication and transportation. The strategic focus on speed and quality must be balanced by efficient resource management, leveraging supplier relationships for timely parts delivery and optimized scheduling for fabrication and finishing tasks.
Conclusion
Effective project management, through detailed activity sequencing, network diagram analysis, and critical path determination, is vital for the successful delivery of the vehicle modification and transportation project. Aligning the project execution with the company's strategic priorities of speed, quality, flexibility, and cost efficiency will enhance its competitive positioning. This comprehensive planning ensures readiness for the auto show in Detroit within the stipulated 45 working days, ultimately supporting the company’s goal of demonstrating innovation and reliability in the automotive sector.
References
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