In this unit we have considered the functions associated with a typical R&D department operating in the microelectronic sector, produced a typical job description for a design engineer and mentioned some management issues. Typical R&D functions that we have described are:- • Development of New Products- usually the primary function of R&D • Product Maintenance- probably the most important secondary function of R&D- short term income is important • Product Enhancement - helps keep the company products ahead of the competition and extends the life of products • Regulatory Compliance- a legal requirement- products sold in the European Community must carry the CE mark • The Quality R&D Interface- quality is a major issue and R&D are heavily involved in ensuring new products attain the required levels of quality • The R&D structure we have outlined is typical of an SME- job descriptions help to define the structure of a department effectively.
Operations Management
Operations management focuses on carefully managing the processes to produce and distribute products and services. Usually, small businesses don't talk about "operations management", but they carry out the activities that management schools typically associate with the phrase "operations management." Major, overall activities often include product creation, development, production and distribution. (These activities are also associated with Product and Service Management. However product management is usually in regard to one or more closely related product -- that is, a product line. Operations management is in regard to all operations within the organization.) Related activities include managing purchases, inventory control, quality control, storage, logistics and evaluations. A great deal of focus is on efficiency and effectiveness of processes. Therefore, operations management often includes substantial measurement and analysis of internal processes.