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Rudolf Leuschner, Ph.D.

Have you ever wondered how products and services are created exactly the same thousands of times over? And how companies are able to smooth out operations to manufacture efficiently, effectively, and without any waste? How is such precision possible? The answer lies at the heart of operations. In the Supply Chain Operations course, we introduce and apply essential process improvement tools to achieve perfection. After completing this course, you will be able to apply the Six Sigma methodology for process improvement. You will demonstrate that you understand the basic tenets of the Lean philosophy that enables manufacturers to eliminate waste and make processes more efficient. Finally, you will be able to apply the tools that you just gained to improve a process of your own. This is an introductory course designed to provide you with a start on your learning journey in operations. You do not need to have any background in operations, but it would be beneficial if you had a basic understanding of business concepts, a working knowledge of spreadsheets, and ideally have mastered the Supply Chain Logistics course. Join me and we will learn together about operations!

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What's inside

Syllabus

Lean Operations and Theory of Constraints
Welcome to the exciting world of operations! This module introduces you to the professor who is teaching the courses in the Supply Chain Management Specialization. You will also discover the essential tools that help make operations better. By the end of this module, you'll know what to expect in the course and hopefully be as excited to learn about Supply Chain Operations as I will be to teach you. In addition, you will understand the major goals of optimizing Operations. You will also be able to recall the major foundations of Lean Thinking and the Theory of Constraints.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches Lean Six Sigma, which optimizes operations
Suitable for those already familiar with Lean and Six Sigma
Covers core Lean concepts like TOC and Inventory
Builds a foundation in Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma
Requires some background in business concepts

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Reviews summary

Intro to supply chain operations

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to key concepts in Supply Chain Operations. It effectively covers foundational methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma, introducing the practical DMAIC framework for process improvement. Students report gaining a useful understanding of inventory management techniques, including calculating EOQ and Kanban. The final application project is highlighted as a valuable opportunity to apply the skills learned throughout the course. While designed as an introductory course accessible to beginners, learners suggest that possessing basic business or spreadsheet knowledge can enhance the learning experience.
Good starting point for beginners
"This course is a good starting point for learning operations concepts."
"I had no background in this area and was able to follow along with the material."
"As an introduction, it covered the basics well and set a good foundation."
"It serves well as an initial dive into supply chain operations."
Chance to apply learned tools
"Applying the Lean and Six Sigma tools in a final project was helpful for hands-on practice."
"The final project module helped solidify my understanding by requiring application."
"It was good to have a chance to improve my own process using the course methods."
Useful techniques like EOQ, Kanban
"Calculating Economic Order Quantity was a useful skill taught in the course."
"I learned how to determine Kanban bin size, which is very practical."
"Understanding safety stock calculations and demand uncertainty was important for my job."
"The inventory module provided solid formulas I can use."
Practical steps for process improvement
"The module on DMAIC helped me understand process improvement steps clearly."
"I feel like I can apply the DMAIC steps to analyze and improve a process at work."
"Understanding the DMAIC approach was very practical and well-explained."
Covers core process improvement methods
"I learned the basic ideas behind Lean Thinking from this module."
"The explanation of Six Sigma was clear and understandable to a beginner like me."
"I can now recall the major foundations of Lean and its goals."
"Understanding the core principles of Lean and Six Sigma was a key takeaway."
Basic business/spreadsheet helpful
"Basic spreadsheet skills were definitely needed to complete some exercises."
"Having some business understanding helped me grasp concepts faster."
"Might be challenging if you have absolutely no prior business or analytical context."
"Recommended to have basic math and spreadsheet familiarity."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Supply Chain Operations with these activities:
Review Lean Thinking Principles
Enhance your grasp of Lean Thinking principles by revisiting key concepts and frameworks.
Browse courses on Lean Thinking
Show steps
  • Review the five principles of Lean Thinking.
  • Familiarize yourself with tools such as value stream mapping and kaizen.
Review 'The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook'
Reinforce your knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles by reviewing a comprehensive guidebook that provides practical tools and techniques.
Show steps
  • Read selected chapters on Lean and Six Sigma concepts.
  • Use the provided tools and templates to enhance your understanding.
Create a Study Guide from Course Materials
Facilitate your learning by organizing and consolidating key concepts from course materials into a comprehensive study guide.
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes, readings, and assignments.
  • Summarize and condense important concepts.
  • Organize the material into a logical structure.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Practice Lean Inventory Exercises
Sharpen your understanding of lean inventory principles and calculations by engaging in practice exercises.
Show steps
  • Solve case studies on Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) and safety stock determination.
  • Calculate Kanban bin sizes using lead-time demand.
Connect with an Experienced Supply Chain Manager
Enrich your learning by seeking guidance from an experienced professional in the supply chain field.
Show steps
  • Reach out to industry professionals through LinkedIn or networking events.
  • Request mentorship or informational interviews.
  • Build a relationship and learn from their insights and experiences.
Six Sigma Tutorial for Process Improvement
Enhance your understanding of Six Sigma methodology through guided tutorials, allowing you to master the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework.
Browse courses on Six Sigma
Show steps
  • Follow a step-by-step tutorial on the DMAIC process.
  • Apply Six Sigma tools and techniques to analyze and improve a real-world process.
Lean Six Sigma Process Improvement Plan
Demonstrate your mastery of Lean Six Sigma by developing a comprehensive process improvement plan that integrates both Lean and Six Sigma principles.
Browse courses on Lean Six Sigma
Show steps
  • Identify a process within your organization that requires improvement.
  • Apply Lean and Six Sigma tools to analyze the process and identify areas for optimization.
  • Develop and implement a detailed improvement plan.
  • Monitor and evaluate the results of your improvement plan.
Attend a Lean Six Sigma Certification Workshop
Accelerate your professional development by participating in a comprehensive workshop that provides practical training and certification in Lean Six Sigma.
Browse courses on Lean Six Sigma
Show steps
  • Register for a reputable Lean Six Sigma certification workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and actively engage in the learning process.
  • Complete the certification exam successfully.

Career center

Learners who complete Supply Chain Operations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical methods to solve business problems. They work closely with managers and other professionals to identify and solve problems related to operations, logistics, and supply chain management. This course will help you develop the analytical skills you need to solve complex business problems. It will also teach you about how to use the principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology to improve the efficiency of operations.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Lean Six Sigma Black Belts are experts in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. They work closely with managers and other professionals to improve the efficiency and quality of products and services. This course will help you build a foundation in the Six Sigma methodology and the principles of lean operations, which are the two most widely used quality management systems in the world.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply Chain Managers oversee the entire supply chain, from the procurement of raw materials to the delivery of finished goods to customers. This course can help you understand the entire product life cycle and the importance of making products as efficiently as possible. This course will teach you about how to use the principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology to improve the efficiency of supply chain operations.
Operations Manager
Operations Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a business. They work closely with managers and other professionals to ensure that the business runs smoothly and efficiently. This course will help you develop the skills you need to manage operations effectively. It will also teach you about how to use the principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology to improve the efficiency of operations.
Six Sigma Master Black Belt
Six Sigma Master Black Belts are experts in the Six Sigma methodology. They work closely with managers and other professionals to improve the quality of products and services. This course will help you build a foundation in the Six Sigma methodology, which is the most widely used quality management system in the world.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts help businesses improve their performance. They work closely with managers and other professionals to identify and solve problems related to operations, logistics, and supply chain management. This course can help you develop the analytical skills you need to solve complex business problems. It will also teach you about how to use the principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology to improve the efficiency of operations.
Management Consultant
Management Consultants help businesses improve their performance. They work closely with managers and other professionals to identify and solve problems related to operations, logistics, and supply chain management. This course can help you develop the analytical skills you need to solve complex business problems. It will also teach you about how to use the principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology to improve the efficiency of operations.
Logistics Manager
Logistics Managers oversee the movement of goods and materials. They work closely with transportation companies and other logistics providers to ensure that goods are delivered to customers on time and within budget. The principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology are both used in logistics to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This course can help you understand how to use these principles to improve the efficiency of logistics operations.
Quality Control Manager
Quality Control Managers oversee the quality of products and services. They work closely with engineers and other professionals to identify and correct quality problems. This course will help you build a foundation in the Six Sigma methodology, which is the most widely used quality management system in the world.
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Managers oversee the quality of products and services. They work closely with engineers and other professionals to identify and correct quality problems. This course will help you learn about the principles of quality management and how to improve the quality of products and services. This course will help you build a foundation in the Six Sigma methodology, which is the most widely used quality management system in the world.
Process Engineer
Process Engineers design and improve industrial processes. They work closely with engineers and other professionals to improve the efficiency of production processes. This course may be helpful to you if you wish to work in process engineering. It will teach you the basics of operations management and how to improve processes to make them more efficient and effective.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineers design, improve, and install integrated systems for managing industrial production. They work closely with engineers and other professionals to improve the efficiency of production processes. This course may be helpful to you if you wish to enter the industrial engineering field. It will teach you the basics of operations management and how to improve processes to make them more efficient and effective.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and execute projects. They work closely with stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course will help you develop the skills you need to manage projects effectively. It will also teach you about how to use the principles of lean operations and the Six Sigma methodology to improve the efficiency of project management.
Product Development Manager
Product Development Managers oversee the entire life cycle of a product, from its initial concept to its eventual launch. They work closely with engineering, marketing, and sales teams to ensure that the product meets the needs of the market. If you want to be a Product Development Manager, this course can help you develop the skills you need to understand the entire product life cycle and the importance of making products as efficiently as possible. This course will teach you the skills you need to manage a team of engineers and other professionals, and how to bring a product to market on time and within budget.
Manufacturing Manager
Manufacturing Managers oversee the production of goods in a factory or other manufacturing facility. They work closely with engineers and other professionals to ensure that products are manufactured efficiently and meet quality standards. This course may be helpful to you if you wish to enter the manufacturing field. It will teach you the basics of operations management and how to improve processes to make them more efficient and effective.

Reading list

We've selected 20 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Supply Chain Operations.
Classic work on lean thinking, a management philosophy that focuses on eliminating waste and improving efficiency. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a detailed overview of the Toyota Production System, a management philosophy that has helped Toyota become one of the most successful manufacturers in the world. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Is more in-depth than the previous one and provides a more comprehensive overview of supply chain management.
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management, covering topics such as supply chain strategy, planning, and operations. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this field.
History of the Toyota Production System. It provides a detailed overview of the principles and practices that have made Toyota one of the most successful manufacturers in the world.
Classic work on the Toyota Production System. It provides a detailed overview of the principles and practices that have made Toyota one of the most successful manufacturers in the world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management, covering both strategic and operational aspects.
Provides a detailed overview of the Innovator's Dilemma, a theory that explains why large, successful companies often fail to innovate. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a quick reference guide to 100 Lean Six Sigma tools. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about these tools and how to use them to improve their operations.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the supply chain management process. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a detailed overview of logistics and supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management from a logistics perspective. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a strategic perspective on operations and supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Fictionalized account of how the Theory of Constraints can be used to improve a manufacturing plant.
Provides a comprehensive overview of operations management, covering topics such as process improvement, quality control, and supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Six Sigma, a quality management methodology that has helped many organizations improve their efficiency and profitability. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Novel that tells the story of a plant manager who is struggling to improve his plant's performance. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the Theory of Constraints, a management philosophy that focuses on identifying and eliminating bottlenecks.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Kanban, a lean manufacturing tool that can help organizations improve their efficiency and profitability. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Lean Startup methodology, a process for developing and launching new products and services. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.

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