BUSA 3120 Syllabus
Quantitative Methods-Mathematical Analysis for Production, Operations and Management
3 semester hours
Summer 2003

Dr. Kim I. Melton
kmelton@ngcsu.edu
132 Newton Oakes Center
(706) 867-2724
Office Hours:  8:30 –9:30 Monday – Thursday (or by appointment)
Class meeting time:  9:20 – 11:00 Monday-Thursday and Friday, June 6, 2003

  Course Description:  Prerequisites:  Math 2400 and ECON 2106.  An introductory course in quantitative methods and concepts used as an aid in the analysis of business problems for decision-making and production management.  Topics include decision models under conditions of uncertainty and risk, linear programming, queuing analysis, forecasting, CPM, PERT, Monte Carlo simulation, and inventory models.

  Course Objectives:
1)    To understand the concepts and application of the scientific approach to problem analysis.
2)    To encourage the long-term use of a logical, orderly, structured approach to the evaluation of alternatives for decision making.
3)    To become familiar with mathematical approaches to optimization and problem analysis in both a deterministic and stochastic environment.
4)    To gain experience in problem formulation and interpretation of results.

Text:  Quantitative Analysis for Management, 8th Edition, Render, Stair, and Hanna

  Methods of Instruction:
Lecture: Course material will be presented through the use of problems. Presentation with questions and discussion from the class should be expected (rather than ‘straight lecture’).

  Tests and Grading:
I recognize that this class is not being presented in the format that you anticipated.  I also recognize that this impacts the logical flow of the material and potentially the learning that could take place.  At the same time, some standards must be set for evaluation and grading.  So far, you have had one test administered and graded by Mrs. Thurman.  I have those grades.  You did not receive any grades from Dr. Orwig.  I have asked him to provide two questions that can be used for grading and evaluation purposes.  One of those will be given to you as a regular homework problem, the other will be a graded problem.  Your final grade will be calculated as follows:

            Test 1:            already taken and graded  Test 2:            June 17
            Homework:  Specific assignments collected June 9 and June 16
            Cumulative Final:  June 19, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.

            Homework will count: 10%                 Highest Test Grade:  50%
            Next Highest Test Grade 40%            Lowest Test Grade 0%

  For each test, you may have 1 (8.5 x 11 inch) handwritten page of notes.

                        Topic                           

            Linear Programming            Chapters 7-9 Sections TBA                 
               Formulation, Graphical Solution, and Computer Output for Sensitivity Analysis
            Queuing Analysis            Chapter 14 Sections 14.1 – 14.5            
            Project Management:  Chapter 13 Sections 13.1 – 13.2     

For daily homework assignments, see the assignments webpage.

General Expectations:

  Preparation: Students should arrive on time and prepared for class. Prepared means that each student should have read the assigned material and attempted all assigned problems. Students who are unable to complete an assigned problem should come prepared to ask questions about that problem. Students who are unable to start a problem should seek help during office hours prior to class time.

  Attendance:  Attendance is expected.

  Homework:  Assignments will be made at almost every class. Reading assignments will introduce upcoming material. Exercises will be assigned to cover material already discussed in class. All homework should be completed prior to the next class period. Students should expect to spend approximately three hours per day on class material outside of class.

  Individual and Collaborative Work:  Unless otherwise noted, students may collaborate on assignments. All tests are to be completed individually. This means that students may work together; this does not mean that students may divide the assignment so that different students do different parts. When assignments are designated as individual, any questions should be directed to me. 

Telephones and pagers:  Turn them off during class.

Disabilities:  North Georgia College & State University is committed to equal access to its programs, services, and activities for people with disabilities.  Students needing accommodations in this course, must supply documentation from the Office of Student Disability Resources stating the appropriate accommodations.  To obtain appropriate documentation, students should contact Mr. Rodney E. Pennamon, Coordinator at 867-2782, 221 Barnes Hall.

Return to BUSA 3120 Home Page