2.1 Introduction
Every aspect of business is influenced by its dynamic external environment and the operations function is no exception. Influences on business operations include globalisation, technology, customer’s quality expectations, cost-based competition, government policies, legal regulation and environmental sustainability. In addition, business operations are shaped by the requirements of corporate social responsibility.
These influences can provide opportunities for improvements to the operations process and strategies. However, they can also threaten the ability of a business to achieve its objectives for operations.