IE 335

Term Paper Requirements

A major acivity of Industrial Engineering is the ongoing research to improve operational efficiency. In most instances, this requires making a cost analysis of the existing productsand processes employed. To see whether, where and how much such a cost analysis should be done and how it is actually being done in practice each student is to do some independent research which is to be submitted as a part of the term paper. It is to consist of the following parts:

1. A two page summary and critique for the three articles, one of these being concerned with making a cost estimate, one with cost analysis and one with activity based costing.

2. A comprehensive detailed description of a visit with one of the following:

An industrial Engineer, Operations/Cost Analyst or Controller to learn how costs in their area of activity are managed and cost control is maintained. Particularly what kind of cost analysis is being done and how this information is applied. (Perhaps this can be illustrated with a non-confidential exampleof a cost analysis/action done in the last two years) Included should be the person's comment with respect to the technique, personality skills required, the extent of the computer/ software knowledge needed to do this type of work, if there is a need to know accounting and any other related skills and lessons learned when doing such a type of study.

3. Spread - Solution of Problems

    3-44

4. For extra Credit - Explain in a minimum of 3 pages how and in what manner databases can or should be utilized to enable a more effective cost estimate/cost analysis and subsequent resource utilization by any organization. Can be done in the context of an example(see oracle,sap Software, People Soft Home Pages)

This term paper is considered an important component of this course. It will be counted at the minimum as the quivalent of one examination and will be graded on the basis of thoroughness and completeness. This term paper is due 14th week of the semester at the last class meeting prior to the final examination. Lateness will result ina reduction of the grade.

To avoid an unsatisfactory submission the student is strongly urged to consult with his/her instructor prior to beginning this assignment should any of the requirements be unclear.