- Choose a specific operations system and brand within a specific industry (you do not have the choose one of the previous examples).
- Describe all the main processes and activities of this operations system. Identify the nature of these processes and draw a flowchart of these processes indicating all the main activities, processes and resources involved.
- Describe the lay-out or the physical space distribution of all these processes, tasks and inputs within the operations system and identify which typology of lay-out it is as well as its weaknesses.
- Calculate different ratios of productivity of this operations system that measure the efficiency of this system and identify the main drivers or factors that determine the performance of this system.
- Propose different measures and actions to take to enhance productivity and the quality of this system. Justify your answer.
- Students are required to use the Harvard Referencing System.
Operations system
Full Answer Section
Main Processes and Activities
The main processes and activities of the McDonald's operational system can be divided into three stages:
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Food preparation: This stage includes all of the activities involved in preparing food, from chopping vegetables to cooking burgers.
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Order taking and fulfillment: This stage includes taking orders from customers, processing payments, and assembling orders.
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Serving and customer interaction: This stage includes serving food to customers, handling customer inquiries, and cleaning tables.
The following flowchart illustrates the main processes and activities of the McDonald's operational system:
Layout and Physical Space Distribution
The layout of a McDonald's restaurant is designed to maximize efficiency and customer flow. The kitchen is typically located in the back of the restaurant, with the cooking equipment and assembly lines arranged in a logical order. The front of the restaurant is designed to be customer-friendly, with clear signage, easy-to-navigate counters, and plenty of seating.
The layout of a McDonald's restaurant can be classified as a process layout. This type of layout is characterized by the grouping of machines and workstations according to the sequence of operations. Process layouts are typically used in manufacturing and production environments, but they are also well-suited for restaurants like McDonald's, where the focus is on speed and efficiency.
One of the weaknesses of a process layout is that it can be inflexible. If the sequence of operations changes, the layout may need to be reconfigured. Additionally, process layouts can be difficult to maintain, as the flow of materials and products can be disrupted if one machine or workstation breaks down.
Productivity Ratios
McDonald's uses a number of productivity ratios to measure the efficiency of its operations. These ratios include:
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Labor productivity: This ratio is calculated by dividing the total number of meals served by the total number of labor hours worked.
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Equipment productivity: This ratio is calculated by dividing the total number of meals served by the total number of hours of equipment operation.
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Space productivity: This ratio is calculated by dividing the total number of meals served by the total square footage of the restaurant.
By tracking these productivity ratios, McDonald's can identify areas for improvement and make changes to its operational system to increase efficiency.
Factors Affecting Performance
The performance of the McDonald's operational system is affected by a number of factors, including:
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Employee training: McDonald's employees are trained to use the company's equipment and procedures efficiently.
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Standardized menu: McDonald's has a standardized menu that is easy to prepare and assemble.
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Technology: McDonald's uses technology to improve efficiency, such as self-ordering kiosks and digital menu boards.
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Layout: The layout of a McDonald's restaurant is designed to minimize waste and maximize customer flow.
Enhancing Productivity and Quality
McDonald's is constantly looking for ways to enhance the productivity and quality of its operational system. Some of the company's initiatives include:
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Implementing new technology: McDonald's is investing in new technology, such as self-ordering kiosks and mobile ordering apps, to improve efficiency and reduce customer wait times.
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Training employees on customer service: McDonald's is training its employees on how to provide excellent customer service. This includes being friendly and helpful, resolving customer complaints quickly, and going the extra mile to make customers happy.
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Enforcing quality standards: McDonald's has strict quality standards for its food and service. The company regularly audits its restaurants to ensure that these standards are being met.
Conclusion
The McDonald's operational system is a complex and well-oiled machine that is designed to deliver high-quality food quickly and efficiently. The company's success can be attributed to a number of factors, including its focus on efficiency, its use of technology, and its commitment to quality. McDonald's is constantly looking for ways to improve its operational system, and the company is confident that it will continue to be
Sample Answer
The McDonald's Operational System: A Case Study in Efficiency and Productivity
Introduction
McDonald's is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, with over 39,000 restaurants in over 100 countries. The company's success can be attributed to a number of factors, including its standardized menu, its focus on efficiency, and its use of technology. However, the heart of McDonald's operational system is its people, who are trained to deliver high-quality food quickly and efficiently.