Question $1\mathrm{.}1$ Demonstrate how globalisation has reshaped the operations management function over the past $5$ years

In recent years, globalisation has significantly transformed operations management worldwide. As businesses navigate a dynamic global economy, the role of operations management has evolved to meet the challenges and opportunities of this phenomenon $($Reid and Sanders, $2023).$ This essay looks into the impact of globalisation on operations management, offering insights into the transformative changes that have occurred over the past five years.

$1\mathrm{.}1\mathrm{.}1$ Expansion into emerging markets

Globalisation has reshaped emerging markets and intensified competition among multinational corporations for market share in dynamic economies. Emerging markets are now more attractive for investment due to factors like favourable demographics, growing middle$-$class populations, and evolving consumption patterns $($Swink et al$.,2021).$ Companies in sectors such as technology, automotive, and healthcare strategically expand into emerging markets to tap into their untapped growth potential $($Olsen and Tomlin, $2021).$ For example, Google and Microsoft have established R&D centres in countries like India and China, utilising local talent pools and fostering innovation tailored to regional needs $($Paksoy and Deveci, $2023).$

However, the journey into emerging markets has challenges that necessitate careful planning and execution by operations management teams. In addition to cultural and regulatory considerations, organisations must contend with economic volatility, political instability, and currency fluctuations inherent to emerging market environments $($Lu and Shen, $2022).$ Furthermore, the heterogeneity of emerging markets presents a diverse array of consumer preferences, socioeconomic disparities, and infrastructure deficiencies that demand tailored strategies for market entry and expansion $($Kumar$,2022).$

As such, operations managers play a pivotal role in orchestrating market entry strategies, optimising supply chain efficiency, and mitigating risks associated with operating in unfamiliar and dynamic business environments $($Moccia et al$.,2022).$ Through proactive adaptation, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of local market dynamics, organisations can successfully navigate the complexities of emerging markets and position themselves for sustained growth and profitability in the global marketplace $($Ivanov et al$.,2021).$

$1\mathrm{.}1\mathrm{.}2$ Supply chain complexity

The globalisation of supply chains has transformed operations management, bringing both challenges and opportunities for organisations worldwide. In today's interconnected global economy, supply chains have evolved into intricate networks spanning multiple continents, involving various suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers $($Dev et al$.,2022).$ This interconnectedness allows organisations to optimise costs and efficiency through lean and just$-$in$-$time inventory practices, minimising waste $($Helmold and Terry, $2021).$ However, this increased complexity also exposes supply chains to vulnerabilities such as natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, and economic uncertainties $($Chase and Aquilano, $2021).$

For instance, the unprecedented disruption caused by events such as the Fukushima earthquake in Japan and the Thai floods has underscored the susceptibility of global supply chains to localised disruptions. Such disruptions can have far$-$reaching consequences, resulting in supply shortages, production delays, and revenue losses for organisations reliant on seamless supply chain operations $($Heizer et al$.,2022).$ To mitigate risks, operations managers must adopt a risk$-$based approach to supply chain management, proactively identifying and addressing vulnerabilities. This may entail diversifying sourcing, building component redundancy, and implementing robust contingency plans for business continuity amid disruptions $($Cachon et al$.,2022).$

$1\mathrm{.}1\mathrm{.}3$ Technology integration

The integration of technology within operations management has not only revolutionised processes but has also become imperative for organisations striving to remain competitive in today's digital age $($Benjaafar and Hu$,2021).$ With the advent of advanced technologies such as cloud computing, big data analytics, and the IoT, organisations have unprecedented opportunities to streamline operations, optimise decision$-$making, and drive innovation across the value chain $($Moccia et al$.,2022).$ For example, companies like Amazon have leveraged sophisticated algorithms to optimise warehouse layout, automate order fulfillment processes, and minimise shipping costs, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction $($Olsen and Tomlin, $2021).$

Additionally, the integration of robotics and automation technologies has fundamentally transformed manufacturing processes, enabling organisations to achieve greater flexibility, agility, and scalability in production operations. Through deploying robot