Sytems and operations management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Sytems and operations management - Case Study Example Some of the business models applied in operation management include the input-process-output and value chain models. Information systems refer to a group of interrelated parts, which collect, process and distribute information in order to enhance control and decision making in an organization (Lee, Shiba and Wood 1999, p. 145). In a case study of Blackberry Hill Farm in South England, various business models can be used to analyze the problems faced in their day-to-day activities. These models include the input-process-output model (IPO), value chain model and consumer direct models. The challenges to be analyzed involve balancing the performance of activities, reducing complexity of some operations, as well as, staff management. Operational management involves transforming resources to products and services (McKeown and Leitch 2003, p. 67). The operations in the Blackberry Hill Farm involve agriculture and tourism. The input resources include cattle, crops, mixed woodland, poultry and farm heritage exhibits. The transforming input resources include the facilities such as a farm and the work force (employees). The transformational processes include cultivation, bee keeping and tractor riding. Others processes include selling at farm shops and cafà ©, bakery, preserving kitchen, pick-your own operations, a nd securing the farms and the car parks, as well. The output products include the fruits, vegetables, dough nuts, satisfaction of visitors and more (Kachiru 2007, p. 231). Using the IPO model, one can analyze the challenges by classifying the operations in the farm. It is necessary to arrange and sort out the major and minor activities. Jim and Mandy, the core managers at Blackberry Farm Hill have focused much on agritourism. This may be because of the increased number of visitors reporting to the farm in the previous seasons. Also, due to the adoption of many operations aimed at attracting more visitors would have contributed to low performance in farming.