Competitive Advantage Gained from Operations Management

Comprehensive Case Study Analysis
Name
Institutional Affiliation
Comprehensive Case Study Analysis
Generating Value
Application Operations Management Functions in the Providence of Products and Generation of Value to Customers
First and foremost, The Thomas Shop is located in downtown Effingham, which means that locals do not have to drive to the nearest city of St. Louis to buy these quality outfits. Kathy makes relentless efforts to delight both her best customers and regular good customers. The former receives brands and style of high-end design while the latter are offered unique clothes that match their body characteristics. Another important aspect that has guaranteed the continuity of this business is hiring and training. Employees acknowledge the importance of recognizing their clients by their names because it enhances their sense of belonging to the business. When it comes to training, both Kathy and her daughters have made efforts to advance their skills further to meet specific customer demands.
Competitive Advantage Gained from Operations Management
There is a significant competitive advantage gained from these operations. First, the mere act of bringing these high-end goods closer to the people of Effingham offers them the advantage of being the sole sellers of these people. Gauging by the socioeconomic status of the people of this town, a considerable number can afford these items, which places The Thomas Shop at a significant advantage. In the economic analysis, approximately 45% of individuals have a disposable income of more than $50,000 annually. On the other hand, the skills the mother and daughter have received are obsolete from the point of being taught, but are quite relevant and important in the current marketplace. Women who have had mastectomy are finding that this is the only place that takes their predicaments into account. This level of loyalty is bound to be a vital determinant in influencing other women, even those who have been fortunate not to undergo the process. Recognizing customers by their name guarantees that they will feel being part of the firm and thus, can come back to shop at the business.
Service and Manufacturing Operations at the Company
The Thomas Shop is an excellent example of a business where there is a blend service and manufacturing operations even though it is primarily a service-based firm. However, the mere fact that there is a significant sense of tangibility of commodities lays the case for manufacturing operations. Being a retailer, The Thomas Shop is the second-last player in the distribution channel of these brands before the final customer receives the product. This function is a manufacturing one because the commodity has to be stored in inventory. Besides, customers lack direct contact with manufacturers or else, the process of production. When it comes to service operations, the firm’s extreme focus on an exceptional customer relationship management is a great gesture. Further, this is an intangible, yet important element of operations. In this regard, the firm business model blends service and manufacturing operations.
Theories and Techniques
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