Essential Operations Management provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of operations management, striking a balance between coverage of the service and manufacturing industries that reflects the modern business environment. The text takes an international approach with case studies covering a wide range of well-known brands such as Apple, Google, Harley Davidson, Wikipedia and Zara, ensuring students can apply theory to the real world more readily. Divided into 12 chapters, Essential Operations Management will fit easily into the average 1 semester course, and the book's modern design, complete with timely learning features, such as key ideas and the on-page glossary make new concepts easy to follow. It is also supported by a comprehensive companion website, including multiple choice questions and guideline answers to case study questions - perfect for self-study.