A Prevalidation of the Product‐Process Matrix. (3rd October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ashenbaum, Bryan
• Is Part Of: Decision sciences journal of innovative education. Volume 11:Number 4(2013:Oct.)
• Page Start: 313
• Page End: 322
• Publication Date: 2013-10-03
• Subjects: Supply Chain Management -- Operations Management -- Simulation and Gaming -- Teaching Using Games; Business education -- Periodicals; 658.00711
• DOI: 10.1111/dsji.12014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1540-4595

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A major challenge for instructors of supply chain and operations management (SCOM) courses is to help students who have never seen a production floor visualize concepts, such as the product‐process matrix from standard introductory SCOM texts. This article presents a classroom exercise, which "prevalidates" the product‐process matrix. Student groups are given a product description and tasked to build the factory to make it using classroom furniture. Even with no prior knowledge, those tasked to make high‐volume standardized products will create simple assembly lines, while those tasked with customized products will create simple work center layouts. A description of how to run this exercise is provided, as well as key takeaways and evidence of effectiveness.