Operations and Project Management: Marks & Spencer Analysis

This report provides a comprehensive review and critique of operations management at Marks & Spencer (M&S). It begins with an introduction to M&S, followed by a differentiation between operation and operations management. The report then evaluates the implementation of operations management principles within M&S, analyzing how well the organization meets its requirements. A discussion on continuous improvement as a philosophy and a description of Lean principles are included, with a focus on value definition, creating flow, and the application of Six Sigma. The report further explores the utilization of lean production techniques, such as just-in-time production, and agile manufacturing strategies. Finally, the report outlines a continuous improvement plan with justified recommendations for improvement based on the review and critique of operations management principles within M&S.

ID
Unit Number and Title Unit 187 – Operations and Project Management
Title Review and Critique of Operations Management (Part 1)
Project Life Cycle (Part 2)
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Table of Content
Part 1: Business Report
1. An introduction to chosen organization
2. An explanation of operation vs operations management
3. A review and critique of the implementation of operations management principles
within the chosen organization
4. An analysis of the extent to which the operations management of the organisation in
the case study meets the requirements of the organization
5. Discussion of continuous improvement as a philosophy and describe the Lean
principles
6. A continuous improvement plan, including your justified recommendations for
improvement, based on your review and critique of operations management principles
within your organization
7. Conclusion
References
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INTRODUCTION
The operation management is the delivery that focus on the area of business to ensure
success of organisational inputs to outputs in an effective manner. It is the process which
usually plans, control and supervise the production and manufacturing process and delivery
of service. Operation management is essential for any business, as it helps in effectively
control, manage and to oversee the goods, people and services (Church, 2020). For this report
the chosen organisation is Marks and Spencer. The report will cover brief about chosen
organisation. Evaluation of difference between operation and operation management. Brief
regarding the implementation of operation management principle in the business. There will
be analysis of the operation management in order to meet the requirement of organisation.
There will be discussion related to continuous improvement as a philosophy and a brief of
lean principles. Lastly there will be application of implementation plan with recommendation
within the business.
1. An introduction to chosen organization
The chosen organization for the report is Marks and Spencer. It the leading British
retailer that brings quality, homeware, clothing and great value of food to offer millions of
their customers around the globe. Marks and Spencer is founded by Michael Marks and
Thomas Spencer in 1884 with the established headquartered in London, England, United
Kingdom.
2. An explanation of operation vs operations management
The operation is the process where everything that happens within the business in
order to keep it running and earning profits. It is essential for organization as it will help in
manage, control and oversee the services and products effectively. Operation is the process
key which handles and manages the overall process of business. A good operation is
important within the organization as it helps in smooth and effective production and
operation system in business. Operation is the work in order to manage the inner working of
business so it can run more efficiently as possible (Khan and et. al., 2021). Operation
management deals in the management of process and operation in the business. The primary
focus of operation management is to improve the profits by optimal utilization of resources
and customer services. Operation manager is generally responsible for managing the overall
operation process. The manager shall manage the activities that are related for designing
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processes and products, targets, productivity improvement, planning on achieving and
controlling resources. Operation management includes key elements of balancing the cost
that are incurred through organization and achievement of profit operating. Operation
management goal is to increase the organization revenue through improving their operation
and maximizing usage of existing resources. This also involves the provision and delivery of
excellent on providing customer services. There is various function in operation management
such as, product designs, process designs, plant layouts, material handlings, material
management, maintenance, quality control and production plan and control. The various
function of operations management is mentioned below.
 Forecasting- This is predicting the future with the help of scientific methods and
systematic analysis.
 Capacity planning- In this the capacity measures the rate of production capability
of facility. This includes the assessing the facility of current capacity, forecasting
future needs, analyzing possible resources and identifying the fulfilment of those
needs, evaluating alternative resources and selecting the best outcome among these.
 Location facility- It is essential in order to determine the location facility of plant
which can ensure the increase the efficiency of operating. The ideal location will
help in contribution to smooth working within organization working, as it is the
opposite of that hinder their growth (Parkhi, 2019).
 Layout- With a good plan layout plan for their placement of utilization service
areas, machines, storage areas and arrangement of other facilities.
 Integration of activities- For the successful execution of the business operation this
involves cordial and efficient workflow between several departments like
production, sales and accounting. It helps in ensuring that there will be uninterrupted
functioning of the business by back-and-forth communication continuous feedbacks
and coordination.
In context to Marks and Spencer, company can develop good operation management
within the organization for building a strong brand image. Which will create the best supply
chain that will lead to increase efficient, capable and faster in servicing for catering to their
customers.
3. A review and critique of the implementation of operations
management principles within the chosen organization
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The implementation and operation for the management system environment is
generally design to ensure the environment within the business objectives and goals to
achieve the line of policies environmental. This is related to managing the operation which
help in achieving the goals with more efficient as possible. Marks and Spencer strategy in
order to achieve the growth through vertical and diversification integration.
Lean production
This approach of systematic manufacturing is generally used in order to get rid of
waste in the production process. This is applicable to every area of a business, including
creating, producing, and distributing products. Lean production helps to increase output,
decrease waste, and improve efficiency. Given that Marks and Spencer is in the fashion
industry, there are a number of advantages to engaging this approach at the operational level
of the business. Which implies that there will be more waste that needs to be taken into
account. As a result, in order to address this scenario, the company adopted leaner production
practices in order to reduce waste at the manufacturing level (Gao and Pishdad-Bozorgi,
2019). The main focus should be on identifying activities that will increase value by
minimizing other factors. That might be reducing production.
Agile manufacturing
Agile manufacturing is a practice used in environments where consumers are
changing their pace and agility is becoming a critical competitive advantage. It also stood for
an intriguing formulation to gain an edge in a competitive market. Agile manufacturing is
concerned with making the best use of the available resources and determining which
company has the necessary data to undertake changes in the manufacturing division. As
reliable data will be essential for changing the production process. With the implementation
of changes in market conditions, the primary goals of this are to increase efficiency and
reduce costs.
4. An analysis of the extent to which the operations management
of the organisation in the case study meets the requirements of the
organization
In order to satisfy their consumers' requirements and demands and do it quickly,
Marks and Spencer operate according to its ideals of clarity, sustainability, beauty, and
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functionality. The company's aims and objectives are primarily short- to medium-term ones
that were established in order to achieve the more significant strategic goals that were
established for the long-term plan. Through its operation management division, Marks &
Spencer has concentrated and set targets to deliver high-quality, environmentally friendly
production at the lowest possible cost. in order for the business to accomplish the goals and
objectives that the company has established. Operations management is crucial and
consequently far more successful for an organization's profitability. As the Marks and
Spencer has huge range in the market which has various risks for taking a right decision for
products. This can be helpful to fulfil the requirements of the business and their demands of
the consumer through following ways.
 As quality is Marks and Spencer's first and most crucial requirement. Since everyone
wants to purchase sustainable things. This will encourage businesses to market their
high-quality goods more effectively and attract more potential customers. Because
consumers desire high-quality, sustainable packaging, businesses take this into
account and, with the aid of organizational structure, provide such items (Centobelli
and et. al., 2020).
 In order to manage their operations efficiently, Marks and Spencer engagement this
strategy. The company is eliminating superfluous purchases while providing their
clients with a fair product made from high-quality materials. It is the fundamental
reason why customers are devoted to the brand.
 Marks and Spencer do a great job of keeping their environment safe. This will
maintain their cooperation, alignment with their objectives, and use of quality control
in their work. In order to utilize the maximum use of their workers' abilities and
commodities at once, the company maintains solid relationships with both their
worldwide suppliers and employees.
 Marks and Spencer can make their items in accordance with market trends by using
the operation management principles. As clients are extremely satisfied with their
operational decisions, the supervisor searches for market requirements and tries to
meet them.
5. Discussion of continuous improvement as a philosophy and
describe the Lean principles
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Lean production will help for improving the efficiency, reduce the waste and increase
the productivity. As there are several types of lean production techniques that help the
business in order to improve its operation management. In context to Marks and Spencer, the
organization is utilizing the just in time production technique within their operation
management.
Lean principles
They are largely useful to reducing rising waste in organizations. These guidelines aid
businesses in lowering production and establishing minimal prices for their goods. Which are
mentioned below (Centobelli and et. al., 2020).
Value definition: By defining value, it is possible to demonstrate how customers'
needs relate to the worth of their purchases. Consumers are constantly focused on achieving
financial worth satisfaction. By offering customers fresh experiences from each of their new
launches with fashionable goods of excellent quality and within reachable price ranges,
Marks and Spencer is meeting their needs.
Creating flow: It is crucial for a business because it ensures that resources like
personnel, equipment, and materials are moving in the appropriate direction. By utilizing the
appropriate talent within the firm, it will assist in improving the finest output. In order to
guide their efforts in the right directions, Marks and Spencer ensures that every employee is
properly trained and aware of the company's goals and vision (Antony and Gupta, 2018).
Maintaining a broad customer base will help Marks and Spencer can achieve market
success. These lean principles will enable the business to add value to their consumers by
satisfying their requirements in line with emerging marketplace trends and requirements.
Applying the six sigma and its effectiveness
As it is essential method which help in aiming the overall profitable of enterprise.
Through implementing the principles of operation management to achieve the dynamic of the
business environment. Marks and Spencer require to implement these methods diversity
within their production. Which are mentioned below.
Define- To bring about beneficial changes in the business, it is important to define the
goals and objectives. Setting goals for staff will help Marks and Spencer achieve ongoing
improvement. For this, the firm management must concentrate on determining the wants of
their clients.
Measure- It refers to the necessity to assess the superiority and quality of products. If
Marks & Spencer's quality isn't quite satisfied, it will assist them adjust to changes. This may
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occur when an organization examines its production process and gains a deeper
understanding of it.
Analyze – It is crucial to examine every production process. Any material's overlaps
and flaws can be found by analysis. Marks and Spencer is properly tracking and analysing
every step of their process, which yields the highest-quality goods.
Design- By reducing unnecessary waste, it offers a precise understanding of the
products. To enhance client retention, Marks and Spencer needs to be more detailed about
how they develop their products to be more sustainable.
Verify- In this final phase, Marks & Spencer will check that every step of their
current procedure was completed. This will reveal whether the designs, aims, and control are
adequately regulated.
Continuous improvement
This is an integrative management philosophy that emphasizes constant process and
product quality improvement in order to satisfy customers. It is a primary issue that
encompasses all organisation activities and is founded on principles, which is more
significant. This is crucial for the business in order to modify their work in response to
demands from customers. The market will face more obstacles as a result of improvements. It
aids in reducing waste and makes use of requirements were met and assets. By consistently
focusing on their functions and administration, Marks and Spencer can be the competition
(Chiarini, 2020).
6. A continuous improvement plan, including your justified
recommendations for improvement, based on your review and
critique of operations management principles within your
organization
The development of a continuous improvement strategy is crucial for ensuring that
manufacturing process quality problems are dealt with. It might be accomplished by applying
the PDCA method to Marks and Spencer in the situation.
Plan- Planning is the process of identifying market demands and potential
organizational changes. Marks and Spencer must schedule daily adjustments to market
behavior.
Do- Marks and Spencer need to begin practicing what they preach in order to bring
about organizational improvements. Since the practice will only last a limited time, it will
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begin as an original change. The Marks & Spencer personnel will be able to adjust its same
work while maintaining high productivity.
Check- Effective management and monitoring of changes is required. As the manager
of Marks and Spencer, you must work under supervision to minimize the possibility of errors.
Act- This is necessary in order to take action so that the changes can endure and be
developed in organizations in a productive manner. These must be involved in the above-
mentioned process in order to properly execute necessary modifications.
Recommendation
 Marks and Spencer should concentrate on adapting to changing circumstances by
recognizing the characteristics and requirements of the work environment.
 The company must develop a plan to involve its workers in implementing to their
environment and equipment (Perkins, Bhaskar and Konarova, 2018).
 They must carry out a task in accordance with the six sigma principles to preserve the
quality of their output.
7. Conclusion
From the above report it is conclude that Marks and Spencer have a strong base for its
operation within organization. By identifying and analyzing the operation and operation
business needs to implement a proper operation management to increase their overall
efficiency. Further discussing related the operation management principles within the
company by utilizing the right principles which will help in maintain the efficiency of their
workers. Through these marks and spencer can meet their requirements, objectives and goals.
Lastly organization can develop the lean production with more effectiveness to gain the
efficiency overall operation management of the company.
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References
Antony, J. and Gupta, S., 2018. Top ten reasons for process improvement project
failures. International Journal of Lean Six Sigma.
Centobelli, P. and et. al., 2020. Designing business models in circular economy: A systematic
literature review and research agenda. Business Strategy and the
Environment, 29(4), pp.1734-1749.
Centobelli, P. and et. al., 2020. Designing business models in circular economy: A systematic
literature review and research agenda. Business Strategy and the
Environment, 29(4), pp.1734-1749.
Chiarini, A., 2020. Industry 4.0, quality management and TQM world. A systematic literature
review and a proposed agenda for further research. The TQM Journal.
Church, A.H., 2020. The meaning of scientific management. In The Contributions of
Alexander Hamilton Church to Accounting and Management (pp. 17-21). Routledge.
Gao, X. and Pishdad-Bozorgi, P., 2019. BIM-enabled facilities operation and maintenance: A
review. Advanced engineering informatics, 39, pp.227-247.
Khan, S.A.R. and et. al., 2021. A state-of-the-art review and meta-analysis on sustainable
supply chain management: Future research directions. Journal of Cleaner
Production, 278, p.123357.
Parkhi, S.S., 2019. Lean management practices in healthcare sector: a literature
review. Benchmarking: An International Journal.
Perkins, G., Bhaskar, T. and Konarova, M., 2018. Process development status of fast
pyrolysis technologies for the manufacture of renewable transport fuels from
biomass. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 90, pp.292-315.
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Table of Content
Part 2: Project Portfolio
Project Title
An overview of the case study you have been given
An explanation of each stage of the PLC that applies to your selected
project, including supporting documentation for each stage (e.g., business
case, the project plan, cost-benefit analysis and work breakdown
structure):
 Project initiation
 Project planning
 Project execution
 Project closure
Analysis of the project methodologies and tools used
Review and critically evaluate the effectiveness of the PLC in application to
your project using the appropriate theories models and concepts
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Introduction
The use of techniques, knowledge, abilities, experience, and processes in order to
accomplish particular project goals for the project acceptance within the agreed-upon
parameters is known as project management (Picciotto, 2020). The report will cover the
implement a project to lower employee absenteeism, this paper will address case study-
related methodologies and project life cycle phases. This can be accomplished by creating a
business plan and applying the project life cycle correctly.
Project Title
The main aim of this project is to deliver an on-site catering and maintaining a healthy
lifestyle of staff members and reducing their absenteeism.
An overview of the case study you have been given
The stages involved in completing a project correctly are covered by the project life
cycle. Projects are a crucial component of any organisation that has a short lifespan. Every
program has a target completion date to achieve its objectives. As a result, it needs to be
controlled by effective preparation, beginning, and implementation. Over 1,250 people work
for the wetlands business Cromwell Tools. The company has set its own objectives to lower
staff turnover brought on by snacking and idly strolling. This has an impact on both the
industry's success and the company's reputation. The company needs to use some tactics to
get its workers more involved in extracurricular activities that would improve their
performance. This can be accomplished by emphasizing CSR and providing lunch options for
employees. This has become crucial in order to give employees a healthy diet and way of life
that will improve their productivity.
An explanation of each stage of the PLC that applies to your
selected project, including supporting documentation for each
stage (e.g., business case, the project plan, cost-benefit analysis
and work breakdown structure):
A project's life cycle is the progression of that project through its various phases. It
includes the stages a project manager needs to complete in order to successfully oversee a
project from start to finish. Below are the phases of PLC as they relate to Cromwell tools.
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 Project initiation
It is the beginning of the project life cycle. It makes reference to fresh concepts, viewpoints,
and perceptions in order to establish desired goals. Cromwell must first assess its
requirements before developing a strategy that will help the business succeed. Workers will
congregate when regulations, plans, and procedures are developed. For the purpose of
offering canteen amenities inside their site grounds, the Cromwell tool has its own range,
assets, and objectives. This initiative will benefit any firm that provides staff with the proper
guidance so they may accomplish their goals ( Barrett, 2021).
.
 Project planning
The organisation effectively starts planning to accomplish the goals at this point. Planning
includes assembling resources, determining budgets, and identifying project hazards. For the
Cromwell Tools Project to put up a canteen and serve nutritious food, a minimum budget of
$60,000 is needed. Since workers won't want to spend time in the cafeteria, this project may
be risky. The concepts of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma can be applied to this. When all
plans and ideas are managed by Cromwell tools, cost, timeframe, waste is reduced, and
efficiency is increased.
 Project execution
Once all the plans are in place, it is imperative that they be carried out in accordance with
the objectives. This will be accomplished by utilizing all of the resources amassed, mitigating
risks, and getting rid of pointless elements that might interfere with the fulfilment of the
objectives. Plans are put into action by the organisation by identifying any gaps that may
exist, including the workforce, and getting down to business. Cromwell tools demand
flawless execution that is practical for the organisation. They are required to provide canteen
facilities that meet quality standards ( Akinsola and et. al., 2020, July). To finish the job
before it's too late and the crisis worsens, Cromwell tool cribs must take certain factor into
account. By monitoring quality, reducing risks, and maintaining individuals informed of
material and any modifications, they must maintain track of every step of the process in a
timely manner to reduce the likelihood of failure.
 Project closure
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The project will be terminated at this point in the project life cycle, and the owners will be
responsible for the outcomes. It could be favorable or unfavorable. By reconciling
shareholders and stakeholders and creating all final reports, projects reach their conclusion. In
order for Cromwell Tools to benefit from this project, worker attendance must be decreased.
Job satisfaction is required, and all activities must be properly wrapped up. By doing this, the
business will demonstrate its capacity to take on initiatives in the future ( Fan and et. al.,
2021).
Work breaks down structure
It is a tool that facilitates simple but efficient work interruptions. The project will be
completed in a short amount of time, and the job will allocate the required resources
accordingly. These quick tasks will aid in meeting project objectives earlier than expected. In
required to bring out upper actions, this requires effective strategic leadership ( Koke and
Moehler, 2019). The Cromwell Tools Business needs this tool to make it simple for its
personnel to carry out project work. Conflict will be reduced as a result, and the program's
objectives will be achieved.
Gantt chart
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Analysis of the project methodologies and tools used
The project life cycle is a very useful tool for evaluating project methodology, goals,
and activity implementation. It is crucial to employ equipment and methods that complete the
task in a methodical manner. The many stages of the project life cycle are crucial to the
current project. Finding the proper ideas is aided by these techniques. the methods and
dangers related to the project's goals ( Roos Lindgreen and et. al., 2021). They are proficient
in making crucial choices for locating beneficial resources, supporting staff, and creating a
plan that will satisfy needs of the organisation. To be in responsible for employee
productivity, Cromwell Tools must leverage the fundamentals of project planning, such as
data, software, and smart devices.
Review and critically evaluate the effectiveness of the PLC in
application to your project using the appropriate theories models
and concepts
Project preparation, commencement, implementation, and closure are all included in
the project life cycle, which is a crucial piece of information. These phases are crucial for
establishing the concepts, beliefs, and objectives of the organisation project, that will assist to
effectively influence the workers ( Cai and et. al., 2022). By examining its breadth, dangers,
and process flaws, he analyzed critically whether PLC is effective in launching plans. Reduce
staff turnover and established Cromwell Tools cafeterias successfully. For instance, they
must oversee feedback from staff, cutting-edge innovation, and the application of efficient
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methods and tools. The waterfall methods that are useful for addressing contemporary issues
will be used for this. The project life cycle can benefit from innovation and changes brought
about by six sigma approaches. This helps with waste reduction analysis, design, and
evaluation, and the organisation can accomplish its objectives.
Conclusion
From the above report it is concluded that the operation management is crucial
practice in order to deliver right quantity, price and quality of products. For product decision
with operation function within the organisation. It usually involves the design, supplier,
inventory, sales and products. This practice will help in daily important elements of the
company in order to achieve more profits. For Cromwell tools the implementation of good
project life cycle is important to keep the operation, production function smooth with the
organisation. This help in understanding the identifying the problems are much better rather
than focusing on techniques. The project life cycle is helpful to reduce the employee absent
by increasing the engagement within the work environment. This will lead to reduction in
waste and increase in the potentiality and productivity of overall organisation.
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References
Akinsola, J.E. and et. al., 2020, July. Comparative analysis of software development life
cycle models (SDLC). In Computer Science On-line Conference (pp. 310-322).
Springer, Cham.
Barrett, D.C., 2021. Understanding Project Management: A Practical Guide. Canadian
Scholars’ Press.
Cai, W. and et. al., 2022. A review on methods of energy performance improvement towards
sustainable manufacturing from perspectives of energy monitoring, evaluation,
optimization and benchmarking. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 159,
p.112227.
Fan, Y. and et. al., 2021. A digital-twin visualized architecture for Flexible Manufacturing
System. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 60, pp.176-201.
Koke, B. and Moehler, R.C., 2019. Earned Green Value management for project
management: A systematic review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 230, pp.180-197.
Picciotto, R., 2020. Towards a ‘New Project Management’movement? An international
development perspective. International Journal of Project Management, 38(8),
pp.474-485.
Roos Lindgreen, E. and et. al., 2021. Exploring the effectiveness of grey literature indicators
and life cycle assessment in assessing circular economy at the micro level: a
comparative analysis. The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment, 26(11),
pp.2171-2191.
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