Manufacturing and service based operations have become more efficient and competitive over the decades due to forces of the global economy. The mass exodus of clothing manufacturing, furniture manufacturing and technical support industries are just a few examples of the global competitive forces changing the face of operations. Competitive advantages can be gained from the tactical and strategic design of certain departments and assembly or service operations. These designs can have a profound impact on the way organizations are managing their operations, efficiencies, and customers. The Toyota automotive corporation with their development of the Toyota Production System is but one great example. The Ford Motor Company has adopted many of Toyotas TPS management tools. This is reflected in the video .

Business managers view operations layout and design from a global perspective and consider layout and design from both an annual and strategic approach. Certain critical path products and services require strategic sourcing. Operations layout is often the central theme of Lean Six Sigma management practices.

In a 1-3 page paper consider and respond to the following questions:

• How does layout and process design impact efficiency?
• Analyze and discuss present day assembly line balancing.
• Analyze and discuss U-shaped and virtual manufacturing cells.
• What purpose do service scapes play in retail operations?
• How do signs, symbols, and artifacts play a role in service based layouts?