Key operation strategy decisions

Capacity and facilities

Supply chain and development

Technology

Workforce

The number of facilities needed

Site location

The size of the site

Timing of adding capacity

Level of independence of each location

How much of the total value chain do we own?

How many suppliers should we have?

How global is our supply network?

Do we outsource non-core activities?

Do we maintain long-term relations with key suppliers?

What level of automation is needed in our processes

How integrated do our systems need to be

How dedicated should our technology be?

What scale should our technology operate at?

Who uses our technology; customers or employees?

How hierarchical is our management structure?

How central is our planning and coordination?

How are people grouped in departments?

What skills and capabilities should be developed in our workforce?

How much discretion are employees given?

How are shifts or work patterns organised?