Problem 1
Problem 1
12
ANSWER
Problem:
Determine the least expensive way to set up production capacity for drill bits.
Assumptions:
Revenue per unit is the same regardless of the machine; startup costs are minimal;
breakdowns are rare; past employee data is reliable; manufacturing methods are the same
regardless of the setup choice; in-house technicians can extend the old machine's life to
match a new machine; neither machine has resale value; there’s no union influence on
keeping the work in-house.
Options:
Decision Criteria:
Choose the option with the lowest total cost for the expected production runs, assuming
quality and delivery time are not impacted.
Risks:
Non-monetary Considerations:
Safety.
Environmental impact.
Post-Evaluation:
Problem 1.13:
ANSWER
Problem:
Mary is a senior civil engineering student who is tired from job hunting and low on money.
She has a tempting job offer at her brother’s manufacturing company. If she accepts, she
could take a break from school, earn money, and then come back later to finish her degree.
However, she’s worried that if she leaves now, she might never return to complete her
degree.
Decide which pizza delivers the most food for the lowest cost, considering both price and
volume.
1. Develop Alternatives:
o The two alternatives are the "Pick-Up-Sticks" pizza and the "Fred's" pizza.
2. Focus on the Difference:
o Compare the pizzas based on cost per volume (size and thickness).
3. Use a Consistent Viewpoint:
o Measure the value in terms of cost per unit of pizza volume.
4. Use a Common Unit of Measure:
o The common measure here is dollars per cubic inch (cost per volume).
5. Consider All Relevant Criteria:
o Consider cost, size, and delivery fees.
6. Make Uncertainty Explicit:
o Each option has fixed prices and fees, so uncertainty is minimal.
7. Revisit Decisions:
o If unsure, double-check by comparing both the costs and sizes to ensure the
best choice.
ANSWER
Possible Solutions: