Analyse questions

What to do when you are confronted with an ANALYSE question! Analyse means to break down all the elements of the question then show how they link at the end.

Analyse the relationship between operations management and business objectives. Define operations management and some characteristics. Define business objectives and some characteristics Show how these two elements link / connect. OR you can answer like the sample on the next slide!

Explain and analyse the relationship between the operations function in an organisation and its business objectives and business strategies. Sample answer: There is a direct relationship between the operations function in an organisation, business objectives and business strategies. Operations is a core function of an organisation that involves transforming inputs through a range of processes into outputs for sale. This function generates revenue. If an organisation establishes objectives such as: increasing market share by 10 per cent in the year XXXX, improving the quality of products or increasing output by 10 per cent in the year XXXX, then changes will need to be made to the operations system if these objectives are to be achieved. Accordingly, business strategies or courses of action would need to be considered and decisions would need to be made regarding which ones would most suitable for achieving business objectives. For example, achieving an increase in output over a given time period might require strategies that involve updating technology and equipment. To achieve a consistently higher quality of products would require strategies such as quality assurance or total quality management. Note: Students’ answers need to link the operations function to both the business objectives and strategies of the organisation.

Practice question Using an example of a relevant organisation. Analyse the relationship between ________________ and ___________________.