Checking your business health

The natural human reaction to this type of law is to ask, “How does this affect me?” While it may not be top of mind for operations and supply chain managers, it also is important to consider how this sweeping legislation might influence your career. Massive change often presents opportunity, and operations and supply chain professionals are uniquely positioned to apply their expertise in different sectors. Consider the following from the APICS Operations Management Body of Knowledge (OMBOK) Framework: “Components of operations management are applicable to almost every type of enterprise—from manufacturing to service organizations. Types of businesses that rely on the processes and control delivered by operations management include manufacturers, banks and financial organizations, retailers and distributors, utilities, schools and universities, health care and hospitals, not-for-profits, and government agencies.” It is no surprise our U.S.-based members have many different perspectives about the new health care legislation. The point of this column is not to take a position on the legislation itself, but rather to say that when large-scale change affects the U.S. economy, operations and supply chain professionals have a role to play. As a result of this law, there will be new opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills. APICS is committed to assisting those of you who are actively involved in the health care sector. I invite you to share with us the opportunities and challenges you anticipate