Essay

1. Write a one-page paper listing the advantages and disadvantages of using part-time employees to help meet demand. 

2. Other than Kroger, research how airlines, car rentals, retail stores, and so on try to manage and minimize customer waiting time. Prepare a one page report. 

3. Do an Internet search of “vehicle-routing software” and “vehicle routing.” Write a two-page report of the capabilities, advantages, and disadvantages of these vehicle-routing and dispatching systems. Provide one or two examples of real-world applications of these systems and the benefits.

4. Interview an operations manager at a nearby manufacturing or service company to find out about scheduling problems the company faces and how they are addressed.