Operations Responsibility

Introduction Responsibility in operations management might seem like common sense, but is often overlooked Here are some of the major ways to take responsibility in the workplace and as an Operations Manager

5 Main Areas of Responsibility 1. Responsibility to Employees Proper Safety Precautions Health Compensation Personal Growth

5 Main Areas of Responsibility 2. Responsibility to Society Wise Stewardship of the environment Reduce waste Reduce pollution Increase efficiency Volunteer and give back

5 Main Areas of Responsibility 3. Responsibility to Suppliers Provide a fair price for goods and services purchased Don’t aid in driving small businesses out of the market

5 Main Areas of Responsibility 4. Responsibility to Customers Safe Products/Product Design Make sure products will not intentionally (or unintentionally) harm customers Use safe materials Safeguard against product design defects

5 Main Areas of Responsibility 5. Responsibility to Owners Work Ethic Dedication to work Don’t slack off Earn your wage Responsible Use of Resources Don’t steal office supplies Don’t use business resources for personal use

Responsibility to Employees

Take Another Look… What is wrong with this picture? No “WET FLOOR” Sign Isn’t wearing slip resistant shoes Other employees are not cleaning up after themselves

Other Ways to Respect Employees Provide proper HealthCare and benefits so that if they are sick or hurt they can return to work as soon as possible Promote personal growth. Most employees should not stay at entry-level positions all of their lives. Encourage them to move up in the company

Responsibility to Society

Take Another Look… The average employee does not notice the negative effect their company has on the environment Operations managers can find ways to increase efficiency, which then creates fewer by-products reducing the company’s negative effects on the environment

Other Ways to be Responsible in Society Set up a few days of the year where all employees give back to the community Have incentives for those who volunteer outside of work

Responsibility to Suppliers

Take Another Look… Managers should support smaller businesses and not try to “squeeze” them out of the market Developing relationships with suppliers will build trust and loyalty which can, in the future, reduce costs

Responsibility to Customers

Take Another Look… Companies and managers should check all products before, during, and after production to ensure top quality for their customers If a problem does arise, then recalls need to occur as soon as possible Keeping customers safe and happy is the #1 priority

Responsibility to Owners

Take Another Look… Stealing office supplies and equipment is a high cost to the company It is disrespectful to the owners and if caught, you could lose your job Having a high work ethic and productivity shows you care about your job and employer, which can lead to rewards

So Why Aren’t We All Taking Responsibility? Too expensive Takes too much time Isn’t necessary Trying to get ahead on our own Don’t see long term effects/consequences

Ways to Promote Responsibility Enforce consequences Show that it doesn’t have to be expensive Hire responsible, trustworthy employees Provide incentives Quality control checkpoints Don’t leave all safety measures up to employees

The Key to Success Each company needs to find their own key to success, but responsible business practices are a great way to start!