The course is built on three interrelated components: soft operational research methods, performance measurement systems, and the application of simulation to improve operational performance. The first component includes Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and Strategic Options Development and Analysis (SODA). The performance measurement component covers developing strategy maps and defining Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), while the simulation part utilises the software Simul8. These three components are closely connected, providing both a systematic and analytical perspective on managing and improving performance within organisations. Discussions on SSM and SODA as well as on performance measurement systems are designed to develop students' independent and critical thinking, while encouraging creativity in approaching complex business situations. An important element of these topics is the ability to communicate and accommodate the views of diverse stakeholders, as well as to articulate complex ideas clearly for different audiences. Within the context of performance measurement, students are also expected to consider sustainability issues and their relevance to business practice. The simulation component of the course equips students with practical skills in using software tools to explore and address business-related problems.

Five weeks in total, each week consists of 2 hours session. The sessions are in a workshop format. There will be three tutorials for simulation section that are completed online and asynchronously. These each are worth around 2 hours work.

(Please refer to MyCampus for timetable).

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Intended Learning Outcomes

This course aims to provide students with current and practical knowledge and skills to apply problem structuring and modelling methods for measuring and improving performance.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Apply soft operational research methods to structure and model complex organisational situations

2. Develop and critically evaluate performance measurement systems to enhance organisational performance

3. Apply simulation modelling and generate data-driven recommendations to enhance operational performance

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.