Every company on the planet undertakes operations daily. From the smallest startups to the biggest corporate giants, operations form the backbone of every business. It involves all activities that are directly related to producing goods or providing services. It’s an umbrella term, covering everything from procurement and distribution to customer service.
However, while all companies have operations, not all of them require full-time operation managers. Let’s delve into why this is the case.
Scale of Operations
The need for a full-time operation manager primarily depends on the scale of a company’s operations. A small business with limited operational activities may not require someone to oversee its execution full-day. Instead, they can opt for part-time operations managers or responsibility could be shared among existing team members.
Cost Consideration
Hiring a full-time operation manager means adding another salary to the payroll. For many small businesses and start-ups, cost is a crucial consideration. They might not have enough financial flexibility to commit to an additional full-time salary, especially if their operations can be managed efficiently by other employees or automated systems.
Automation and Technology
We live in an age where technology and automation have taken centre stage. Tasks that previously required human intervention can now be effectively managed using sophisticated software tools. This doesn’t negate the importance of human oversight but reduces the need for dedicated, full-time staff to manage operations.
Agile and Cross Functional Teams
Modern businesses are increasingly adopting agile practices, which involve cross-functional teams. These teams are self-organising and multi-disciplinary, carrying out a wide range of functions including managing operations. This kind of dynamic structure often negates the requirement of having a full-time operation manager.
In conclusion
while operations are integral to every company, the requirement of a full-time operation manager hugely depends on various factors such as scale of operations, financial considerations, technological advancement, and adoption of modern business practices. Business owners need to assess their individual needs carefully before deciding whether a dedicated, full-time operation manager is necessary for their company or not.
