Advance Manufacturing Processes and Materials M11EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary The module is specifically designed for students with an engineering background to provide: an understanding of the interaction between manufacturing processes and material selection to optimise component design and manufacturing efficiency details of modern manufacturing processes and their capability to enable economic and practical comparisons to be made material selection processes together with material science understanding for ferrous, non-ferrous and plastic materials

The module will allow the student to make objective decisions on material and process selection for optimum component manufacture. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 3. Analyse and interpret the difference between the various types of engineering materials with respect to their structure, properties and suitable processing routes 4. Apply and understand the influence of manufacturing processes on microstructure, service performance of materials and their ability to produce shape 5. Identify and apply those material properties that are important in product design 6. Propose material/process combinations for optimum manufacture of components 7. Predict processing efficiency benefits and mechanical consequences from any proposed change of material and/or processing route

Automation Systems M12EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the application of automation techniques in manufacturing, with an emphasis on design for assembly. The module is intended to equip the student with knowledge to specify, design and develop automation systems. An artefact assisted in problem solving approach is used as the basis of arriving at a solution. Case examples and the appropriate level of knowledge is provided through a series of lectures and practical sessions and industrial visit. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On completion of this module the student should be able to: 1. Specify systems flexibility needed and analyse types of systems weaknesses and appropriate technology to address the weakness 2. Justify automation systems in terms of cost, performance and general parameters 3. Apply workpiece feeding, transfer systems, automated storage systems, vision and intelligent sensing devices 4. Apply, to an artefact, the principles of design for assembly the CAE design approach 5. Design and specify for automated and/or semi-automated assembly of an artefact

Contracting Management M55EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary Project management professionals should have an awareness of the relevant legal duties, rights and processes that govern in a particular project situation. This is not intended to replace the need for professional advice and services. There should be an awareness of the potential causes of disputes, liabilities, breaches of contract, means of resolving a dispute and the basics of contract law. This module is intended to provide the student with the knowledge necessary to make choices based on reasoned arguments and discriminate between strategic alternatives in the effective use of contracts in project management. 2. Teaching and Learning 1.Recommend a suitable process for identification, short-listing, assessment and selecting of a suitable contractor for different phases of a project. 2. Recommend an appropriate contract strategy given the nature of a specific project and the strengths/weaknesses of the client organisation and explain the importance of ensuring the correct specification. 3. Recommend a suitable pricing and payment strategy to ensure control over quality, cost and time when contracting for the supply of goods and/or services to the project. 4. Discriminate between the different forms of contract required for various elements of a project and explain the need for good contract practice. 5. Summarise the key requirements of a valid contract, assess the alternatives to resorting to the civil law to resolve disputes, explain the concept of breach of contract and discuss the appropriate remedies.

E-Commerce M52EKM
1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This module deals specifically with identifying e-business opportunities and their exploitation in the communications business particularly in growth terms. Potentially these opportunities can be exploited by any business but those operating within the communications industry are ideally placed to exploit many of them. Change is taking place; the module identifies the most promising market segments for the development of e-commerce. It also analyses the critical success factors underpinning successful e-commerce activities. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes The intended learning outcomes are that on completion of this module the student should be able to: 1. Analyse a business and its environment as the basis of creating an e-commerce strategy, 2. Conduct e-commerce analysis, planning and design and grasp the associated sociotechnical challenges of e-commerce, 3. Evaluate the broader aspects of e-commerce activities including the financial, legal, marketing and distribution sides and then further evaluate the way in which user, business requirements and opportunities inter-relate.

Engineering Strategy M69EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This strategy-level module focuses on facilitating the achievement of long term profitability within manufacturing companies. Increasingly, companies in international markets are competing through their product offering and through their manufacturing activities. An ability to respond to customer demand through having the capability to develop and produce new products quickly and effectively is an important way of creating a structural competitive advantage. This focus on the market place should similarly drive the development of strategies for the Manufacturing function, in that they must support the companys marketing objectives and also be able to provide a competitive advantage in the market place. This module considers new product introduction from a strategic and process perspective, and identifies the relationship between product development process strategies and business performance. It then looks in more detail at the design of strategies for the Manufacturing function. The approach is both analytical and practical. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Understand and apply the concept of strategy, the process of setting corporate/company objectives and the application of key strategy analysis tools, be able to understand the affect of different industry environments on business strategies, and be able to appreciate the significance of the linkages between corporate/company, marketing, and manufacturing strategies, Appreciate and analyse the imperatives of new product introduction (NPI), recognise the relationship between NPI strategies and business performance, and appreciate the differences between winning and losing strategies, Identify and apply key stages of the product development process, with particular emphasis on the involvement of manufacturing and the overall impact of new product introduction on its strategy, Understand and apply the concepts underpinning the theory of manufacturing strategy, and how a manufacturing strategy can contribute to business performance and competitive advantage, Evaluate individual elements of a manufacturing strategy and with this knowledge/capability, be able to apply a conceptual framework or methodology for its development/refinement, Demonstrate and explain the capability to potentially improve a companys business performance. This capability will be evident through the successful application to the assignment case study of theory, knowledge, and appropriate analytical and deductive skills developed during the module. The outcome will be justified improvements to the strategies of the case manufacturing company.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Engineers M56EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This module aims to provide the students with a firm understanding of the theory, practices and importance of Entrepreneurship in both the small to medium enterprise across to larger multinational organisations. It is intended to introduce the students to the current academic research and theories of entrepreneurship including related concepts such as the Techno entrepreneur, the Serial Entrepreneur and more. After this detailed review the module considers the concept of Innovation incorporating the problems faced by the entrepreneur through the innovation process whilst progressing more deeply into innovation within organisations

2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Evaluate the philosophies and theories behind entrepreneurial behavior, incorporating the entrepreneurial personality. Differentiate between entrepreneurs, techno entrepreneurs, serial entrepreneurs, intra entrepreneurs and minority entrepreneurs, and in addition critically review their similarities, differences and the methods of management of these different groups. 2. Critically assess an organizations characteristics that facilitate the innovation process. Plan and implement activities, which will establish an innovative environment within an organizations structure. 3. analyse a companys strategic approach to Innovation Management including company culture and the role of the individual in the process and as a result recommend strategic changes to improve a companys Innovation Management. 4. Underpin work with reference to supporting literature, up to date research and appropriate case studies.

Financial Decision Making and Risk Analysis M21EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This Postgraduate module aims to provide the participants with an understanding of key financial concepts and their application towards the establishment of a financially sound manufacturing business. It will equip the participants with sufficient financial knowledge to enable them to evaluate their own decision making in the context of their manufacturing companys long term strategic development. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: carry out the following with respect to the specific requirements of manufacturing businesses, placing special emphasis on problems of managing the capital asset replacement decision, economies of scale of the production process, the integration of the overall logistics process and the integration of suppliers in a global manufacturing environment: 1 2 Explain the key sources of funds required to establish a stable manufacturing business Appraise the basic accounts of a business and form judgements about a firms performance over time and in comparison with competitor firms Identify and apply the key tools used to evaluate capital expenditure proposals Explain the non-quantifiable benefits of sustained investment in capital assets Calculate the value of a company and identify the major strategic and operational factors which influence the value of a company Analyse the causes and effects of the rise in multi-national / global companies

3 4 5

Human Resource Management M22EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary The aim of this module is to prepare participants for the human aspects of managing engineering and manufacturing organisations. It takes a largely strategic view, building on behavioural science and organisation theory to determine structures and cultures for effective organisations and to consider the role of the individual manager in implementing them. It pays particular attention to strategies for establishing the best combination of people and technology.

The module is relevant to a wide range of industries but the great majority of examples and case studies used in the module are derived from the manufacturing industry with particular emphasis on the automotive sector. Professionally, the module meets good practices recommended by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and many uses practices promoted by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Analyse the existing human resources management (HRM) practices in an organisation in order to plan how to optimise and manage changes. 2. Provide an understanding of the relevant theories, origins and best practices involved in managing people in the workplace by establishing an understanding of the key elements of HRM, including structure, culture, leadership, management, team working, training, development, coaching, mentoring, communication, influencing, performance and motivation. 3. Awareness of legal aspects affecting HRM with particular emphasis on staff handbook policies including recruitment, discipline and management systems, such as data protection, quality management and health & safety. 4. Incorporate behavioural theories in order to establish and implement strategies for the interaction of people and technology. 5. Establish and apply best practice in communicating with employees both directly and through trades unions

All of the above are set in the context of engineering/manufacturing organisations

Lean Operations M14EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary

Lean Manufacture is based upon the principle of eliminating waste at all levels throughout the manufacturing system. This module reviews the skills and techniques required to analyse manufacturing systems and to design improved methods and layouts. It will use value stream mapping to understand and appraise the current state. Future state mapping will be used to develop a vision of value added flow. The application of lean into the service industries will also be considered. The focus of this module will be on the application of the techniques through case studies and industrial experience, and will identify the benefits to be gained by their successful implementation. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Evaluate the current research and application of lean in manufacturing and the service industry. 2. Use appropriate analytical techniques to identify and eliminate the seven types of wastes. 3. Use value stream mapping to appraise the current state and to develop a vision for the future 4. Design single piece flow cells 5. Apply lean techniques to the visual management and control of a manufacturing system. 6. Demonstrate the benefit to be gained from the consideration of lean manufacturing throughout the new product development process and introduction

Manufacturing and Management Simulation M18EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This module aims to enable a student to gain experience in the use of discrete event simulation techniques to investigate typical engineering systems. The module starts with a familiarisation of the 'simulation life cycle' from problem specification to recommendations of solutions. Sessions then cover the individual processes that underpin the 'simulation life cycle'. There is an emphasis on 'learning through doing', thus, there are computer based exercises to complement the taught sessions and to enable a sound knowledge of applying a leading simulation package to be gained. The module is thematic where the practical exercises are associated with a 'case study' scenario such as a manufacturing production system or a local area network. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1) Explain the role of simulation as a decision support tool, and the simulation life cycle together with its associated underpinning processes. Identify event driven systems that are amenable to analysis using discrete event simulation. Describe a discrete event software simulation package in terms of the facilities it offers, the types of systems it may be appropriately applied to, and the hardware and software support it requires Apply methods for data collection and data reduction using statistical distributions within simulation. Analyse an event based system specification and devise a model of the system. Devise and construct a model of 4) above within a simulation package. Apply verification and validation techniques to a model. Devise experiments to enable the performance of a model, hence system, to be assessed, and, apply confidence level techniques. Analyse results from simulation runs and make recommendations to improve system performance, such as improvements to production schedules.

2) 3)

4)

5) 6) 7) 8)

9)

Masters Dissertation M99EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary The project is intended to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate competence in applying the concepts and skills acquired during the taught part of the course. Students will apply a level of intellectual rigor which is commensurate with the standard of their own Masters level programme of study. The project may be a solution to a practical Industry problem/ requirement or focus on a research topic. In particular MBA projects will have a wider remit and be more strategic and management in nature. MSc projects will usually be more focused to a particular area of study. The module will allow investigation and research as core activities, leading to analysis, final summations and competent recommendations. The project will culminate in a comprehensive, thorough and professional report, documenting the conduct, approach and outcomes of the project, further supported with a critical review of the project conduct and management. It is intended that the module gives students an opportunity to specialise in an area that may be interesting, relevant and useful for future prospects and career.

2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On completion of this module the student should be able to: 1. Apply intellectual rigor to a topic area or subject that is of interest to the student and relevant to the programme of study undertaken at a Masters level. 2. Conceptualise and articulate a particular area of research or industry requirement in the body of a coherent, comprehensive and logically argued professional report. 3. Utilise and justify a range of research methods to identify, select and review a wide range of fully cited information sources to support the subject matter, both historical and current. 4. Identify and apply appropriate approaches, methodologies, tools and techniques that will support the progression of the subject matter and theme of a project. 5. Develop well structured solutions to an identifiable industry requirement or support a hypothesis / intellectual argument regarding an area of research. 6. Critically evaluate options and make justifiable recommendations for the subject matter. 7. Critically evaluate the approach and conduct of the project. 8. Demonstrate and conduct a project to good project management characteristics and Quality Assurance techniques. 9. Apply appropriate measures to address any legal and ethical issues relating to the project work.

Production Planning and Scheduling M15EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary

The right product, at the right time, the right price, quality and cost are the aims of a successful manufacturing business. In order to achieve these aims manufacturing companies must co-ordinate and synchronise the procurement of their materials, both in-house and through their supply chain. Further data must also be integrated into the system to support sales, the product, manufacture, finance and resources. This module aims to demonstrate the techniques available for production planning and scheduling which enable a company to co-ordinate inputs from sales and marketing, the supply chain and manufacturing to produce effective schedules. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Appraise company level control systems such as ERP and MRP. Demonstrate key inventory and control principles Demonstrate different scheduling techniques Design local, shop floor production control systems Use future state mapping to demonstrate a vision for the future

Project Planning, Monitoring and Control

M59EKM
1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This module prepares you for managing the successful implementation of projects. One of the main reasons for project failure is the lack of clear development of aims, objectives and scope. This module

provides the tools techniques and methodologies for the development of these and their conversion into plans, structured to enable effective monitoring and control of cost & time. In addition to teaching the basics of constructing Gantt charts and network diagrams, it looks at computer based tools such as Microsoft Project. Successful project management also requires the management of contractual aspects, project teams, human resources, purchasing and supply, and project financing. These aspects will be considered in this module but will be taken further in other mandatory modules specified in the course requirements.

2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Recommend a suitable structure and process for monitoring and control of specific projects. Explain the benefit of careful planning and preparation before the actual implementation phase. 2. Plan the implementation of a project, integrating the technical, contractual and human resource elements. Recommend a suitable structure for control of the project. Explain how schedule control can be exerted through resource scheduling and expediting. Prepare Gantt charts and construct a Critical Path Method, Activity-On-Node, network diagram using the Precedence Method of analysis. 3. Explain the relationship between cost and profit in relation to projects, the difference between cost and price, and the importance of a cost breakdown structure in establishing control over project cost. Compare the different types of cost estimate in terms of their use, accuracy and cost of preparation. 4. Construct a cumulative cost budget based on direct and indirect costs; spend profiles, and resource requirements, using a Gantt chart for a project. Prepare a full variance analysis based on actual cost and earned value analysis and interpret the findings. Construct and interpret S curve diagrams, variance and critical ratio plots. 5. Perform effectively and efficiently as a member of a project team, applying the tools, techniques and methodologies of project management to plan, monitor and control both large and small projects.

Project Management M28EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary

This module prepares you for managing organisational change through projects. It focuses on projects involving major changes, including issues related to new products, new plant and equipment and new operating systems, which will affect the lives of people both within and without the organisation. It takes a high level, critical & evaluative view of the subject, emphasising managerial and strategic use of the tools and techniques of project management. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: Assess the business case for a project, analysing the benefits, uncertainties and risks, including an analysis of stakeholder needs, expectations and their associated impact on the project. Recommend a suitable structure and process for monitoring and control of the project. Explain the benefit of careful planning and preparation before the actual implementation phase and the use of multidisciplinary teams in its development and implementation. Recommend a strategy for reduction of uncertainties and the management of associated risk, including that due to the specific nature of projects. Formulate a strategy for the implementation of change; integrating the technical, contractual and human resource elements, based on an analysis of the state of the organisation, the nature of the change, and its impact on the perceptions, morale, and needs of the workforce. Explain the need for good contract practice and how an effective contract procedure can minimise a projects risk and uncertainty. Select an appropriate contract and pricing strategy based on an analysis of the nature of the project, and the strengths and weaknesses of the organisation. Explain how the client can exert control over quality and performance by means of a suitable payment strategy, considering the need to maintain the contractors financial stability. Perform effectively and efficiently as a member of a project team, applying the tools, techniques and methodologies of project management to prepare a Business Case, Work Breakdown Structure and Contract Strategy for a project and to prepare a plan for how the project can be carried out, including contractual aspects and how it can be monitored and controlled.

Purchasing Management M54EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary The overall aim of the module is to provide course members with an in-depth knowledge of purchasing management and a critical understanding of how the concepts learnt may be applied both strategically and practically in an industrial organizational context.

2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Appraise the linkages between business strategy and purchasing strategy. 2. Critically evaluate how purchasing management can contribute to competitive advantage. 3. Apply purchasing management theory, concepts and models to the analysis of case studies of sufficient complexity to require judgment and synthesis. 4. Evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in a specified area of purchasing management leading to a demonstration of independent learning and an advancement of individual knowledge. 5. Assess and evaluate advanced concepts and future trends in purchasing management.

Quality Management and 6 Sigma M29EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary The intention of this module is to convey the importance of Quality as a strategy for continuous improvement in business performance. Accordingly the module evolves through strategies for competitive quality, quality in design and manufacture and the customer supply chain to the concept of Total Quality. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to:

1. Apply the philosophies, tools, techniques and systems associated with Total Quality Management, 2. Differentiate between Inspection, Quality Control, Quality Assurance and Total Quality Management programmes and critically review where and when these techniques are applicable. 3. Interpret customer focus and market forces as the basis for all business activities. 4. Assess the maturity of an organisation's quality programme including cultural and leadership aspects, 5. Plan and implement activities which will improve a quality programme within an organisation and move the organisation towards Total Quality Management 6. Underpin work with reference to supporting literature and case studies

Study Skills and Research Methods M04EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This module provides the background in study skills and research methods to enable students to carry out assignments and projects over the range of Masters programmes that the Department of Engineering and Knowledge Management contributes to. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes The intended learning outcomes are that on completion of this module the student should be able to 1. Research information relevant to assignment and project topics from a variety of sources. 2. Critically evaluate potential research situations and published literature. 3. Present information professionally 4. Develop a research design at Masters level. 5. Specify appropriate research techniques to implement the research design and evaluate their uses and limitations, taking into account ethical issues involved. 6. Synthesize a proposal for a Masters project.

Supply Chain Management M25EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This postgraduate module reviews the nature, role and contribution of Supply Chain Management and it's application to industrial supply chains. It equips participants with an understanding of the importance of Supply Chain Management from both a customer and supplier perspective, and aims to prepare them for starting a managerial role within an industrial supply organisation. 2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to: 1. Demonstrate the linkages between theoretical concepts and real life supply chain management practice 2. Use supply chain management theory, concepts and analytical tools to analyse case studies of sufficient complexity to require judgement and synthesis 3. Critically evaluate current research and advanced scholarship in a specified area of supply chain management leading to a demonstration of independent learning and an advancement of individual knowledge in the area 4. Critically appraise how SCM and supplier development can contribute to improvement in business performance and competitive advantage including the drivers for change 5. Assess and evaluate advanced concepts and future trends in SCM

Sustainability and Environmental Management Systems M68EKM

1. MODULE SUMMARY Aims and Summary This module is designed to discuss, analyze and investigate the operation of environmental systems and the issues of sustainability within and between manufacturing companies. The module will allow students to evaluate the opportunities such approaches give to organizations to allow world class manufacturing methodologies to function, continuously improve and meet diverse stakeholder needs and requirements. The module will discuss the need for and structure of organizational systems. Allow students to critical analyze systems with reference to organizational failures. This systems approach will be synthesized to form the basis of understanding world-class quality and environmental management systems. The module will conclude with the organizational mechanisms that allow optimal deployment of these systems, emphasizing the human interactions that are required for adoption, operation and development.

2. TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT Intended Module Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this module a student should be able to:

1. Understand and evaluate the mechanism of sustainability, placing them within a world class framework 2. Critically evaluate organisational issues from an environmental and sustainability perspective. 3. Understand and discuss the issues of creating and sustaining environmental management systems