Cru Computer Rentals
Answers to Old Midterm Questions
Question 1 These questions deal with Mitchell Gold Co. as described in the articles “A Maverick of Sofas Rearranges the Furniture Business” and “Gold’s New Rush”.
[1.a] Using the dimensions we discussed in class, how would you describe Mitchell Gold Co.’s strategic position?
Mitchell Gold competes by offering high quality products at a lower price than most makers of similar quality furniture. They offer limited variety in comparison to other makers, which allows them to be more responsive and deliver orders in a timely manner (97% on time shipment).
[1.b] Consider the following description of another furniture maker’s (Invincible IPF) business:
The standard product line has about 500 different items, with many of the pieces starting as stock, unfinished wooden frames imported from Europe. But the finished furniture can be as different as the imaginations of the designers, with 60 different standard finishes for the wood and an almost unlimited selection of upholstery provided by designers. … Because each piece is hand finished by rag and brush and made to order, the process can take 12 weeks or longer, with one custom-made entertainment cabinet nearing completion after almost six months. (The Record, Bergen County, NJ, 12/09/2001)
How would you anticipate that Mitchell Gold’s production processes differ from those of Invincible IPF? Be sure to discuss the nature of the production equipment and the placement of inventory.
MG offers less variety and has greater volume than Invincible. Consequently, MG likely uses more specialized equipment while Invincible has primarily general-purpose equipment.
Since designers provide upholstery provided for custom orders, Invincible should have little raw material and no finished goods. MG likely has higher raw material and finished goods inventory. Given the long flow times, Invincible likely has much higher WIP levels.
Question 2
[2.a] In The
Question 1 These questions deal with Mitchell Gold Co. as described in the articles “A Maverick of Sofas Rearranges the Furniture Business” and “Gold’s New Rush”.
[1.a] Using the dimensions we discussed in class, how would you describe Mitchell Gold Co.’s strategic position?
Mitchell Gold competes by offering high quality products at a lower price than most makers of similar quality furniture. They offer limited variety in comparison to other makers, which allows them to be more responsive and deliver orders in a timely manner (97% on time shipment).
[1.b] Consider the following description of another furniture maker’s (Invincible IPF) business:
The standard product line has about 500 different items, with many of the pieces starting as stock, unfinished wooden frames imported from Europe. But the finished furniture can be as different as the imaginations of the designers, with 60 different standard finishes for the wood and an almost unlimited selection of upholstery provided by designers. … Because each piece is hand finished by rag and brush and made to order, the process can take 12 weeks or longer, with one custom-made entertainment cabinet nearing completion after almost six months. (The Record, Bergen County, NJ, 12/09/2001)
How would you anticipate that Mitchell Gold’s production processes differ from those of Invincible IPF? Be sure to discuss the nature of the production equipment and the placement of inventory.
MG offers less variety and has greater volume than Invincible. Consequently, MG likely uses more specialized equipment while Invincible has primarily general-purpose equipment.
Since designers provide upholstery provided for custom orders, Invincible should have little raw material and no finished goods. MG likely has higher raw material and finished goods inventory. Given the long flow times, Invincible likely has much higher WIP levels.
Question 2
[2.a] In The