Using Technology in Operations

AS Business Studies

Unit 2:Managing a Business

Robotic Technology

Handling Operations

Welding

Assembling

Packaging

Measurement

Testing

Hazardous Applications

Using Robotic Technology

• No human could operate at the same speeds with the same amount of accuracy.

• Robots are efficient; no need for toilet breaks, cigarette breaks, absences due to illness….

• No risk of productivity decreasing due to morale, or disputes.

• Competitive advantage over rivals through capacity utilisation, quality and lower unit costs.

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/business-studies/comments/amazing-production-video/#extended

Automative Technology – Using machines or electronic devices to

carry out a process

• Planning

• Operating

• Controlling

• Stock Control (EPOS)

Kanban

A kanban is a card that accompanies components as they move through production. These cards act as a signalling system to trigger re-ordering of components and supplies and thus improve stock control.

Communicative Technology (ICT)

• The acquisition, processing, storage and dissemination of vocal, pictorial, textual and numerical information through a combination of computing and telecommunications.

Design Technology• CAD/CAM

• Creation of new products

Benefits of using technology in operations

• Reducing Costs

• Improving Quality

• Reducing Waste

• Increasing Productivity

• Flexibility

• New and better products and services

Issues in Introducing and updating technology

• Resistance to change

• Lower morale

• Cost

• Keeping up with the change

• Lower barriers to entry

• Limitations of robots

Real LifeIn pairs you need to create a written

document with annotated pictures on 3 chosen companies/businesses and their use of technology in operations. You need to make sure it is not just descriptive! You need to write about why they use what they use, suggest other things they can do, what else their current systems may depend upon….in other words be analytical and evaluative!! Skills you need to develop!!!