Assessment Task Overview
In this summative assessment, you are required to produce anindividual report.This report will build upon the framework or structure developed inFormative Task 2.
Your task is to critically examine the principles of Operations Management (OM)and demonstrate how they are applied within an organisation. For this assessment, you will selectHeathrow Airporta live/virtual client introduced during the moduleas the focus of your case study.
Your target audience will be senior management personnel of the organisation (Heathrow Airport). In your report, they will expect to see well-supported analysis, incorporating currentindustry trendsalongsiderelevant academic researchfrom credible sources. This should demonstrate a strong understanding of both practical and theoretical aspects of the issues discussed, grounded in up-to-date, authoritative data and literature.
Assessment Requirements:
- Examine whatOperations Managementis, explain how the concept is applied, and discuss its significance within the broader context of business operations.
- Identify and evaluate the application of appropriate operations and quality management theories, frameworks, and processes in relation to quality management issues facing the organisation/company(Heathrow Airport).Use examples to demonstrate the practical application of the theories.
- Identify a key quality management issue facing Heathrow Airportand provide adetailed analysisof the issue, drawing on academic and industry research to support your findings
- Developan improvement plan to address the identified quality management issue and provide a set of recommendations using best practice techniques and credible sources.
Ensure that your work adheres toacademic integrity standards. You are required tosubmit evidence of completing the Academic Integrity Coursein the appendices. Any detected misuse of generative AI tools, plagiarism, or poor academic practice will be penalised in accordance with the universitys academic misconduct policy.
Assessment Guidance
Structuring Your Report
You should structure your report to demonstrate both critical thinking and practical application. The following sections are recommended:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce the concept of OM and its relevance to your case study.
- Literature Review: Discuss key OM theories and frameworks. Evaluate these frameworks critically, focusing on their relevance to your case study.
- Quality Management Issue: Identify and analyse a specific issue at Heathrow. Your analysis should draw on relevant academic theories and current industry research.
- Improvement Plan and Recommendations: Provide a clear, structured improvement plan supported by best practice techniques.
- Conclusion: Summarise your findings and reflect on the importance of continuous improvement in OM at Heathrow.
Research Requirements
You are required to incorporate at least10 academic sources(e.g., books, journal articles, and research papers). In addition, a minimum of3 credible external sources(e.g., industry reports and government publications) could be used to support your industry-specific analysis. Be selective with your sources, ensuring they are both current and credible.Refrain from using generic web content and ensure that industry data is properly cited.
Limiting AI Tool Use
AI tools can be helpful for tasks like initial research or grammar refinement;however, the core content and arguments in your work must reflect your own understanding, skills, and effort while strictly following the guidelines of each assessment.AI is meant to complement your learning, not substitute your critical thinking, creativity, or originality. Overdependence on AI-generated content will be viewed as a violation of academic integrity and may result in penalties. By maintaining academic integrity, you uphold both your educational goals and the values of our university.
Formatting and Referencing
All sources must be referenced using theSolent Harvard Referencing style. This includes accurate in-text citations and a complete reference list organised alphabetically by the author’s surname. Ensure that your work is formatted professionally, with proper headings and a logical flow.
Academic Support and Resources
- Formative Feedback: In Formative Task 2, you developed a framework for this report. Use the feedback provided to refine your arguments and ensure a cohesive structure.
- Library Resources: Access the universitys online library for peer-reviewed journals, books, and industry reports.
- Workshops: Attend workshops on academic writing and referencing to improve the quality of your work further.
Note: You must ensure that your submission adheres to the universitys academic integrity policy. Detected breaches, including overreliance on AI tools, will result in formal academic penalties.