Post Industrial Society - Operations Function

In the post -industrial society, industrial production has become so efficient that the average worker can now afford products that were once the preserve of the rich. As disposable income increases so does the desire for services. The emphasis moves from quantity and cost of goods to the 'good life'. Quality of life begins to take precedence over the building of factories or the health issues surrounding chemical plants. In this world, the emphasis is on services such as retailing, insurance, health and education.

As it progresses, there are increasing demands for improved health and education services whilst other services become commodity products. In the post- industrial society, the technical and professional skill levels demanded by employers are significantly greater than those needed to tend the machine. The entry to the post-industrial society is a sound education and abilities and attitudes that will help develop the people networks necessary to operate in a society where cake decoration may become a scarce activity. In this world, communication, rise of Government and justice for all are key issues. In this world, agricultural and manufactured products consume a falling percentage of the average salary.

Manufacturing is now a mature activity while providing service is new and faltering. The service sector is not a single sector, it is many. From transportation, education, insurance, health care, entertainment and sport to retailing and hotel accommodation. Their characteristics are different. Unlike either agriculture or manufacturing, the service sector is dominated by variety.