There are two learning objectives of this assessment.

1. The first relates directly to the operations management materials. This assessment will develop and test your understanding of different facilities layout options, and the operational reasons behind such decisions.

2. The second learning objective is related to your ability to produce a management report. This assessment will develop and test your written communication skills.

What is the task?

As part of this assessment you will be required to visit the newly redesigned ToituOtago Settlers Museum (TOSM), 31 Queens Gardens, Dunedin. The entry is free (or a gold coin donation if you wish).

In this assessment you are required to produce a management report from the perspective of a consultant, reporting back to your client - the CEO of an overseas museum. Your client has asked you to critically evaluate the layout and customer flow of TOSM, and contrast your observations with the operational theory. You should consider the different types of layouts used in the museum exhibits and public spaces of TOSM. During your visit to TOSM you should consider the operational objectives and decisions regarding the layout of all aspects of the public viewing areas. This should include entry and exits, cafe and gallery, and each of the different exhibit rooms and displays. You should consider which types of operational layout have been used, and why these have been chosen. How have the organisational goals influenced the choices made regarding the layout?

Finally, your client has asked that you provide a conclusion which evaluates the effectiveness of such operational decisions from the perspective of the overall operational goals of this organisation, and provide specific recommendations regarding potential improvements.

Please Note: Do not contact the TOSM management or staff during this assessment. All aspects of this assignment can be undertaken using observations from your visit, and research from online resources.