Pennington Family Farms (PFF)

This Canadian family farm produces several high-quality organic vegetables (leafy greens, micro greens, herbs and more) in their indoor greenhouse facilities using both hydroponics and minimal soil growing methods. Their process avoids using traditional outdoor planted crops and maintains peak freshness by having the product continue to grow while in its unique packaging (supplied by a third-party manufacturer) and on store shelves. In essence, it is a living product until it reaches the consumer.

They are certified organic using non genetically modified seeds and no pesticides or herbicides. They market their product as a healthier, safer and more natural food.

Digitizing a Business

Most online definitions of 'digital transformation' or 'digitizing a company' will result in a description that talks about conversion from analog to digital - or conversion from paper and manual processes to an electronic information system that collects, transmits, stores, processes (manipulates), communicates and outputs data, often in the form of information. Since data is key to all data-driven technologies, some that we explored this term, the digitization process is of huge interest to citizens, business, government, and the economy. In Canada, many businesses remain in analog, or could use a modernization of their technology and processes. Just recently, Canada announced the Boost Your Business Technology program for small to medium size businesses. "Boost Your Business Technology can help get your business online, give your e-commerce presence a boost, or digitalize your business's operations. These grants are designed to help Canadian businesses become more competitive. ...helping your business scale up its technology and become more resilient..." $15,000 for a consultant and to develop a plan + up to $100,000 in interest-free loans to implement the plan + other workforce assistance subsidies. LINK:https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canada-digital-adoption-program/en/boost-your-business-technology

The Challenge/Opportunity

Pennington Family Farms have grown significantly in the last ten years with a large number of retail road-side stands, fresh markets, and within the last few years, selling to two major Ontario grocery chains. They also supply a number of restaurants in Ontario and northern United States. Since PFF have introduced more exotic 'baby' vegetables (those harvested before maturity for smaller size and tenderness), several European countries have expressed interest in the products as they are expected to survive the shipping much better than other types of produce.

Because PFF are focused on planting, growing and harvest, upgrading of machinery and technology has been neglected. Their current processes are labour intensive, and as demand has grown quickly in the last few years, they are at a tipping point. Now is the time to look at the organization holistically and invest in digitization and modern technology that allows them to meet objectives and take the company to the next level. PFF wishes to explore the Canadian government program to enhance operations and take advantage of the financing options available.

Task

Approach the following tasks from an Operations perspective. This would not normally include Human Resources, Finance, Accounting or Sales unless those activities are directly linked to or are a part of Operations as outlined in the OM program. Consider all of your courses and learning when responding to the questions. Refer to course material as often as possible. Support and validate your answers by explaining in detail. Refrain from Google search results unless they are needed to validate your ideas and not part of the course material.

Do not copy the question in your answers. You may number the answers if you wish but it is not required. Please answer in the same order as the questions are presented. Q1: 15 points Digitization involves data. Data leads to opportunity. These opportunities include accessing new data-driven technologies that may not have been previously available, and compatibility with modern systems and devices.

Discuss the many benefits (five or more) of digitizing and adding data-driven tools/technology to Operations for this company. Arrange your thoughts into paragraphs that describe the specific benefit to this company, the technologies that would relate to that benefit, and how the benefit is obtained.

Do not use bullet points. Start with the benefit and not the tech. Q2: 5 points If this company takes advantage of the grants and loans available from our Canadian government (see details in 'Background' above), what long term considerations should the business think about and plan for if they decide to modernize their technologies?

Q3: 10 points There are additional data-driven technologies that add value to the process of digitizing an organization. These may leverage current technology investments, they may involve third parties and stake holders, or consider external forces. What two ideas would you suggest for this specific company? Refer to PFF and their core competencies when answering.

Q4: 5 points How do you feel an Enterprise System fits into this scenario? Explain your reasoning.

Q5: 5 points Several threats are introduced when an organization updates their business technology. Despite the obvious benefits, one must consider the challenges related to digital transformation. Describe at least five different internal security measures you require as part of the new system and processes. Consider the size and scope of this business.

Q6: 10 points TELOS is a feasibility model used to assess requirements when considering to develop or purchase technology. T- Technology - Is the technology available? Does the business have access to it? E - Economic - Are costs properly allocated? Can the business meet the financial goals while supporting the tech objectives? L - Legal - Are their any legal considerations that need to be met when implementing or using the new technology? O - Operations - Are the goals properly