Operations Management Essay

Analytical/Quantitative Skills Outcome

Unacceptable (1 pt)

Partially Proficient (2 pts)

Proficient (3 pts)

Accomplished (4 pts)

Quantitative Methods and Software (1, 25%) ACBSP.6 ACBSP.6.A

The student is unaware of inadequacies in data analysis and software use and clearly does not understand the purpose or use of specific data analytic techniques. Any suggestions made are incorrect, as well, and could lead to a decision harmful to the company.

The student has evaluated the extent to which the study has used the correct methodology and software to analyze quantitative data. Problems in methodology were identified correctly, but the corrections suggested were neither correct nor attempted. Significant work on the report is still needed.

The student has evaluated the extent to which the study has used the correct methodology and software to analyze quantitative data, determining any needs for additional or different data. Where analyses are incorrect or inadequate, the student has identified the inadequacies and attempted to resolve them. Additional analyses are needed prior to presentation to the company.

The student has evaluated the extent to which the study has used the correct methodology and software to analyze quantitative data, determining any needs for additional or different data. Where analyses are incorrect or inadequate, the student has identified the inadequacies and made or suggested appropriate corrections to improve the validity of decisions. The report is ready for professional presentation.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) (1, 25%) ACBSP.6 ACBSP.6.B

The student does not understand the data output well enough to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The data are essentially unintelligible numbers on a page for him/her. The analysis is incoherent and of no use to the company.

The student has translated the results of the data analysis into a discussion of strengths and weaknesses, opportunities, and threats demonstrating an basic level understanding of the numbers, but some of the data are misinterpreted leading to at least one major incorrect conclusion that is relatively harmless.

The student has translated the results of the data analysis into a discussion of strengths and weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and proposed one possible solution to problems made evident by the data. The discussion is adequate.

The student has translated the results of the data analysis into a discussion of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and proposed to solutions to problems made evident by the data. The discussion is insightful and well reasoned.

Data Presentation (1, 25%) ACBSP.6 ACBSP.6.C

The student does not understand the data well enough to present it.

The student has summarized the data with at least one error, and the presentation is only partially correct with one or two minor flaws that are relatively harmless. Improved graphs are needed.

The student has summarized the data correctly and created a presentation that is basic, but correct.

The student has synthesized the data into original presentations that are both correct and graphically appealing and crystal clear. The graphics elaborate or illustrate key ideas.

Decisions (1, 25%) ACBSP.6 ACBSP.6.D

The student’s decision does not make sense and could harm the company.

The student has translated the results of the data analysis into a recommendation or solution, but it is not likely to resolve or heighten the problem.

The student has translated the results of the data analysis into a recommendation or solution that should prove helpful for the company’s operation.

The student has translated the results of the data analysis into an appropriate set of recommendations, conclusions, or solutions for the company that will enhance its operation.