Case:

National Cranberry Cooperative:

1. Provide an in-depth analysis of the operations at the coop. Draw a process flow diagram showing the major process steps, inventories and flows. Indicate the capacity at each of the process steps.

2. Describe the issues that may arise at the loading dock during the peak season. Assume that 18,000 barrels of berries arrive uniformly over a 12-hour day and that the plant starts processing at 7:00 am. Drawing an inventory buildup diagram may help you analyze the situation. What can you conclude about truck waiting times from this diagram?

3. Would you think of other alternatives for improving the operation?

4. What would you do if your objective is to maximize the farmer’s income? What would you do if your objective is to maximize the cooperative’s income? Which options would you recommend and why?