Read the Crocs: Revolutionizing an Industry's Supply Chain Model for Competitive Advantage case study in your course text. For your Group Discussion this week, do the following:

Which of the five lean tenets are obvious in the Crocs case? Do not only list them, but also describe them.

Support your description with details of Crocs' operations that demonstrate how the company has incorporated each lean tenet.

While you are not required to respond to your colleagues' individual Discussion posts, you are encouraged to do so. Remember, you are required to also answer this question with your assigned group during the preparation of the Group Case Study Project and include a group response in the appropriate sections of your final Group Case Study Project.

Required Resources

Readings

Schroeder, R. G., Goldstein, S. M., & Rungusanatham, M. J. (2013). Operations management in the supply chain: Decisions and cases(6th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.
Chapter 5, "Service Delivery System Design" (pp. 86-109)

In this chapter, you will be introduced to the concept of service delivery system design, which focuses on how to improve the quality of service. The components of a service design and the role of customer and employee satisfaction are addressed. Also presented is the role of technology in the service field.

Focus on understanding how a service matrix can be used to determine whether customer wants and needs are being adequately addressed. Review and think about the examples and anecdotes provided in the chapter that illustrates the major ideas being conveyed. Consider the different levels of customer contacts. What can be done when a service delivery failure has occurred?
Chapter 6, "Process-Flow Analysis" (pp. 110-133)

Chapter 6 discusses process thinking, flowcharting to describe transformation processes, measuring process flows, and process redesign to improve operational efficiency. Organizations review the individual steps that are involved in the process of creating their product, and by carefully studying this sequence of steps using a process-flow analysis, it becomes easier to identify where problems occur and what improvements could be introduced.

Focus on analyzing systems as interrelated elements or functions that transform or convert inputs (knowledge, energy, raw materials) into outputs (products and services). Pay particular attention to process redesign and business process reengineering to more efficiently and effectively meet customers' needs and expectations.
Chapter 7, "Lean Thinking and Lean Systems" (pp. 134-159)

Chapter 7 introduces you to the lean systems model for business. One of the goals of all businesses is to minimize waste in time, resources, and basically anything else that does not contribute value to the product. Chapter 7 provides specific suggestions for how to implement a lean system in an organization. The chapter also presents the seven most common ways waste may occur in a business.

Examine how the Kanban system may be used to assist in meeting the master assembly schedule. Review and think about the examples and anecdotes provided in the chapters that illustrate the major ideas being conveyed. Consider the impact that lean thinking could have on how business is conducted. Ask yourself what areas, or functions, in an organization typically waste time or resources?

Media

McGraw-Hill. (2013). Video clips. In Operations management in the supply chain: Decisions and cases. Retrieved from http://highered.mheducation.com/sites/0073525243/student_view0/chapter7/video_clips.html

Gortrac, a manufacturing company, implemented a program of "lean manufacturing and continuous improvement." They discuss their reasons for switching to this type of system and explain both the process and benefits.

Focus on the strategies they used with the employees when implementing this system. What other benefits was Gortrac looking for, besides reducing waste, when they implemented lean manufacturing?

Optional Resources

Schroeder, R. G., Goldstein, S. M., & Rungtusanatham, M. J. (2013). Operations management in the supply chain (6th ed.). Retrieved from

http://highered.mheducation.com/sites/0073525243/student_view0/index.html