We don’t like to hear it but operations simply execute strategies and tactics decided by management.

Don’t be confused … the operations team of the company do not decide the high level strategies or directions that are being taken. This does not mean significant intelligence isn’t key within the operations organization though !

What you will see in productive organizations is a solid communication channel between upper management and the operations team.

Before to accept key new businesses, start new products, attack new markets … a review is taken place between key players of the company (sales, marketing, operations, finance, hr) to review and agree all is in place to move forward.

Such a “go” usually has the buy-in from all parties meaning profit targets have been approved, resources identified or budget assigned, equipment and workforce in place, policies procedures but also tools readily available.

Without such alignment, severe and sometimes hidden risks may exist !