CIPS Level 5 - Operations Management [L5M9]

About this course

On completion of this module, you will be able to understand the concepts of operations management and how they link to the efficiency and effectiveness of the supply chain. You will also be able to explain the plans, designs, processes, and systems used to control and improve supply chain operations across a range of organisational environments.Operations management focuses on how organisations produce goods and deliver services consistently, efficiently, and to the required quality standards. It is central to achieving customer satisfaction and organisational performance. This module helps you explore the core activities of operations management, including process design, capacity planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and performance measurement. You will examine different types of operations—such as manufacturing, service, retail, construction, and public sector environments—and consider how each requires different approaches to managing demand, reliability, speed, flexibility, and cost. You will also explore the input–transformation–output model and evaluate how operations strategy can support wider organisational objectives. The module introduces continuous improvement methodologies, such as benchmarking, business process re-engineering, and total quality management, giving you insight into how organisations identify weaknesses and improve their processes. By understanding these concepts, you gain the ability to analyse operational issues more effectively and help shape solutions that improve overall supply chain performance.Did you know: Operational inefficiencies cost organisations an estimated 20–30% of their annual revenue, often due to outdated processes, fragmented systems, or inaccurate forecasting. Modern operations management increasingly relies on data-driven decision-making, using tools such as real-time dashboards, predictive analytics, and automated workflow systems to improve accuracy and reduce waste

Course objectives

• to help students analyze and improve supply chain operations
• to equip students with the skills to assess and implement operational strategies
• to enable students to apply continuous improvement methodologies in real-world scenarios