Aggregate planning identifies the resources needed by operations during a specified time period. Once these resources have been authorized, operations must make do or justify any deviations from the plan.With this in mind, identify the resources if you and three of your peers take a cruise of 10 to 14 days during a period when school is not in session.

On the Internet, investigate at least three different cruise lines. Develop a set of criteria for selecting which cruise line you will use. Select a cruise that you would like to take. The destination of the cruise is up to you. In preparation for the cruise, calculate how much and what kinds of clothing you’ll take, as well as what accessories (cameras, binoculars, snorkeling gear, golf clubs, etc.) and how much cash. Then check to see which items you own and which items you need to buy.

Remember to check the site to see how many formal nights, informal nights, casual nights, and theme nights there will be during your cruise. Also check the shore excursions so you can calculate adequate funding. Don’t forget to check your itinerary so you have proper clothes for any ports you’ll be visiting (some countries frown on tank tops and shorts). Your professor should indicate any budgetary restrictions that you have.

You can put many of your expenses on a credit card, but you’ll also need cash for gratuities, incidental expenses at the different ports, and money for the casinos or bingo. You need to plan for transportation to and from the airport or for parking at the airport if one of you drives. You also need to be sure to take care of stopping your mail and taking care of any other responsibilities while you are away.

Develop an aggregate plan detailing the resources you will need for this cruise. Then disaggregate your aggregate plan by detailing what resources will be spent each day of your trip. Be ready to justify your expenditures.