Article : How Does the Product Life Cycle Affect Development of the MacBook? Mac products have an average life cycle of around 3.5 years, with new models being released every 1.5 years or so, according to model release dates. As mentioned above, this is due to Apple's awareness of what the market and its futures will look like, and is contingent on sales and individual device uptake. Few distinct Mac models have come onto the market since the line's launch in 2006. While Macs have a relatively short average life cycle time, there are several influencing factors that can explain why the reality of these devices is quite different. This average life cycle probably takes into account models like the original MacBook that are now completely discontinued. It also likely factors in desktop devices like the iMac, which we've avoided here to keep the scope reasonable. One reason that only a few new Mac models have come onto the market is so these products don't have to compete with each other internally. You can take the 12 primary generations of iPhone (as well as the Mini, Pro, Pro Max, XS, XR, X, Plus, and regular offshoots) as a great example of intermingling and competition between models. Another reason is that, especially for the MacBook Pro, sales volumes have stayed consistent. This means that the device has had an extended maturity phase. That's bolstered by the fact that the Pro model has been accepted so well that it is now seen as a "go-to" laptop. Along the same lines, this also means that advertising costs are minimal. Apple has also been smart to redesign models like the MacBook Pro, without having to reset and send out a completely new generation of devices. Basically, market forces and user demand both affect Apple's products heavily. While it isn't explicitly discussed, the Product Life Cycle shows us how these changes can influence progression. The graph above displays this nicely. Effectively, the Product Life Cycle underlines Apple's need to be a constant innovator and provider of products at an exceptional standard. Its MacBook range has, in a lot of ways, already proven itself. Thus, the company's hasn't really had to iterate rapidly, fend off competition, or change strategy. Question a) Every product goes through different phases of a product life cycle. Describe FOUR (4) phases of product life cycle. Support your answers by using MacBook as an example. (10 marks). b) Based on your above answers, discuss FOUR (4) decisions made by operations management in each stages of a product life cycle. (10 marks) c) Apple is one of the most innovative and ingenious technology companies as it has the power to sway millions of people into standing in line for hours in the bitter cold just to buy a phone. Determine SIX (6) new product opportunities should be consider by Apple before introducing their new product. (18 marks). d) There are documents for production that are required in the manufacturing company. Discuss any FOUR (4) documents for production. Support your answers with examples. (12 marks)