Emerging Commercial Players Programmable Logic
First, select a novel operations technology, and describes its contribution (or projected contribution if really new) to the current state of the operations art. It would be most useful if you have been exposed to that technology on your job, and can report on first hand. Examples of technologies of interest are sourcing and procurement strategies, manufacturing operational strategies, distribution strategies, supply chain information systems, electronic commerce, or anything else that is of interest to you and would likely interest class members, but within the domain of operations. If in doubt, contact me.
Second, research the current state of the chosen technology and summarize it in your report. Find out thecurrent or emerging commercial “players”, and look at their future technological directions. Based on at least three sources (ordinary articles or Web pages, to be referenced in your report), address at least the following points using data and facts:
o What are the key technical and economical aspects of the technology which benefit the marketplace (consumers of this technology, both individual and corporation)?
o Who are the current “movers and shakers” in this area? Compare and contrast their technological andbusiness approaches, products, etc.
o What are the current impediments to their approaches for acceptance in the marketplace? Examples are ease of use, price, technological longevity, etc.
Third, based on the current state of the technology, express your personal opinion and conclusions on the future of the chosen technology and its applications. Make sure your arguments are logical and backed byyour research; you are encouraged, however, to voice opinions gleaned from your personal “crystal ball” (convictions and intuition), but be reasonable (and brief…). You may attach to your report supporting material, such as graphs and charts. Remember, anybody can collate material from the Web, but it is more difficult to analyze such material and reach conclusions. Analysis and conclusions will be the components of your group project most heavily weighted.