This book provides readers with a state-of-the-art overview of operations management. It shows the fundamental principles of operations and how they relate to effectively producing goods and services. A thorough discussion of service operations recognizes the fact that a dominant proportion of jobs and operations decisions exist in services. Strong global emphasis (includes international, multi-domestic, global, and transnational strategies) demonstrates to readers how world economies tie together. Other chapter topics cover operations and productivity; operations strategy for competitive advantage; operations in a global environment; forecasting; managing quality; statistical process control; 7s: operations technology, the internet, and ERP; human resources and job design; supply chain management; e-commerce and operations management; project management; and maintenance and reliability. For individuals interested in operations management--and the challenges of cultural, ethical, and critical issues in business today.