Operations are the activities involved in producing goods or providing services to customers. These activities include designing products, purchasing materials, planning and scheduling production, managing inventory, and delivering finished goods or services to customers.

Operations Management

Operations management is the process of planning, organizing, and controlling the activities involved in producing goods or providing services. The goal of operations management is to ensure that products and services are produced efficiently, and at the lowest cost possible while meeting customer demands for quality and delivery. Operations managers are responsible for ensuring that the right materials, equipment, and people are available at the right time to produce goods or provide services. They are also responsible for managing the processes and systems that transform inputs into outputs, as well as managing the performance of the people who work in these processes.

One key aspect of operations management is the use of technology and automation to increase efficiency and productivity. This includes using computer systems to plan and schedule production, automate quality control processes, and manage inventory. Operations managers also use data analytics and business intelligence tools to monitor and improve the performance of operations, identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements, and make data-driven decisions.

Effective operations management is critical to the success of any organization, regardless of its size or industry. By optimizing production processes and ensuring that products and services are delivered to customers in a timely and cost-effective manner, operations managers can help organizations stay competitive and profitable in today's fast-paced and constantly changing business environment.
See all project management words

Methodology specific dictionaries / glossaries

• View the Agile Dictionary
• Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) Dictionary
• Prince 2 glossary of terms
• Full ITIL glossary of terms
• See also Risk Management Dictionary.