Santa Clara University

Course Descriptions

OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENTINFORMATION SYSTEMS (OMIS)

Professors: Robert A. Collins, Manoochehr Ghiassi, Chaiho Kim, Steven Nahmias, Stephen A. Smith, S. Andrew Starbird
Associate Professors: Narendra Agrawal (Chair), Charles D. Feinstein, Andy A. Tsay
Assistant Professors: Wingyan Chung, Manoj Parameswaran, Mu Xia
Joseph S. Alemany Professor: Chaiho Kim
JCPenney Research Professor: Stephen A. Smith
Lecturers: Homi Fatemi, Mikes Sisois, Niles Walker, Oliver Yu

Note: The following three courses are required of all MBA students. Please see Preprogram Competencies (page 33) and Waiver Rules (page 35). OMIS 353 must be completed within the student’s first two quarters in the program.

OMIS 351. Mathematical Analysis (Preprogram Competency)
Fundamental concepts and manipulations of differential and integral calculus. Mathematical modeling and problem formulation. Must be completed by the end of the student’s first quarter in residence. Graded pass/no pass.

OMIS 353. Statistical Methods
Introduction to probability and statistical analysis, emphasizing applications to managerial decision problems. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability theory, sampling distributions, statistical estimation, hypothesis testing, and simple regression. Additional topics may include exploratory data analysis, variance analysis, and contingency tables. Must be completed by the end of the second quarter in residence. Prerequisite: Demonstrated math analysis/ calculus proficiency. (3 units)

OMIS 355. Computer-Based Decision Models
Integrative course focusing on using computer-based models to improve managerial decision making. Teaches rigorous formulation of business decision problems, computer-based solution methods, and interpretation of results. Methods include forecasting, sensitivity and scenario analysis, linear programming, decision trees, and simulation. Applies techniques to problems in operations management, finance, accounting, and marketing. Prerequisites: ACTG 300, OMIS 353, and spreadsheet proficiency. (3 units)

Note: The following course is required of all MBA students.

OMIS 357. Operations Management
Survey of methods for planning and executing processes to achieve high quality, low cost, and timely delivery of goods and services. Topics will be drawn from capacity analysis, forecasting, inventory planning, supply chain management, Lean Production, statistical quality control, aggregate planning, and MRP. Emphasis will be on operational knowledge that is essential for all other functions in a firm. Prerequisites: ACTG 300 and OMIS 355. (3 units)

Note: The following courses are offered as electives and/or as part of a concentration.

OMIS 362. Computer Simulation and Modeling
Using computer simulation to design and operate complex processes or systems. Design, validation, operating procedures, and analyzing results of computer simulation experiments. Study examples of computer simulation applications, including different types of scheduling, such as assembly line and job shop, distribution system design, inventory reordering design, waiting line systems, and manufacturing processing design. Cross-listed as MSIS 626. Credit will not be given for both. Prerequisites: OMIS 353 and knowledge of one programming language. (3 units)

OMIS 366. Database Management Systems
The course introduces database management and database management systems (DBMS). Students will acquire technical and managerial skills in planning, analysis, logical design, physical design, implementation, and maintenance of a database. Students will be provided hands-on training in database design, development, and implementation using relational DBMS software. Emphasis is placed on designing and developing reliable databases to support organizational management. Cross-listed as MSIS 603. Credit will not be given for both. Prerequisite: Computer use experience. (3 units)

OMIS 368. Software Project Management
An overview of software project development methodology, covering both technical and managerial aspects of software development. Examines alternate software life cycle models and introduces modern techniques for software definition, design, implementation, and validation of software products. Cross-listed as MSIS 606. Credit will not be given for both. Prerequisite: Knowledge of or experience with a high-level programming language or permission of instructor. (3 units)

OMIS 372. Information Systems Analysis and Design
Methodology to assist in the analysis and design of computer-based information systems for business applications. Tools include data flow diagrams, flowcharts, Structured English, pseudo code, hierarchy charts, structure diagrams, and Warnier-Orr charts. Application of these tools to a systems development project is required. Cross-listed as MSIS 602. Credit will not be given for both. Prerequisite: None. (3 units)

OMIS 374. Artificial Intelligence
Survey of basic concepts in artificial intelligence and their applications for business-oriented problems. Production systems, search techniques, knowledge representation, and inference techniques. Uses of calculus, statistical and probabilistic reasoning, design and implementation of expert systems, and understanding natural languages. Entails application developments using Expert System shells. Prerequisite: OMIS 353. (3 units)

OMIS 378. Information Systems Policy and Strategy
Strategic management and deployment of information systems and technologies (ISTs) to improve business competitiveness. An examination of the role of IST strategy in enabling companies to effectively manage the turbulent and dynamic business environment brought about by the Internet. Analysis of new business opportunities in electronic commerce brought about by ISTs, including organizational redesign that these technologies require. An examination of implementation and change management issues related to IST deployment in the new environment. Focuses on drawing lessons from the experiences of leading companies that are deploying ISTs to define and support their e-commerce strategies. Cross-listed as MSIS 604. Credit will not be given for both. Prerequisite: None. (3 units)

OMIS 384. Supply Chain Management
Focuses on the key challenges and issues relating to design, analysis, and management of manufacturing and logistics systems for gaining competitive advantage through adaptive and time-responsive supply chains. Topics include the role of information technology in logistics, rapid logistics, inventory and capacity planning, supplier relationships, supply chain network design, and managing product proliferation. Prerequisite: OMIS 357. (3 units)

OMIS 386. Business Intelligence and Data Warehousing
This course introduces technologies and managerial issues related to data warehousing, business intelligence, decision support systems, data mining, Web mining, and customer relationship management. Students acquire technical and managerial skills in using and developing decision support applications. Emphasis is on learning how to derive business value from large amounts of data. Hands-on training will be provided using a variety of BI tools. A lab fee is required. Cross-listed as MSIS 621. Credit will not be given for both. Prerequisite: OMIS 366 or knowledge of database management systems. (3 units)

OMIS 388. Supply Chain Outsourcing
In many products’ path to market, the outsourcing of even more functions — including product design, materials procurement, manufacturing, and logistics — has created supply chains with unprecedented capabilities, as well as novel forms of dysfunction. For managers contemplating what to outsource, this course will frame the make-buy decision. For managers of outsourced functions, this course will offer guidance for negotiating terms, monitoring performance, and enhancing control. Prerequisite: OMIS 357. (3 units)

OMIS 390. Integrated Product Development
This course introduces students to the methods companies use to develop and release new products. New product development is a challenging, rewarding activity that can make the difference between success or failure for a company, especially in technology-based industries. The traditional view that new product development is an “art” practiced by engineers has now given way to an understanding that it is a discipline that must be learned and practiced to be successful. Students will learn the sequence of activities needed to successfully develop and launch a new product or service; understand how the different functions and roles in product development interrelate and work together; learn how to balance strategic and tactical activities in successful product development; develop a better understanding of how to determine and satisfy customer needs; understand the financial aspects of product development; develop the skills to analyze and improve product development efforts within a company. Prerequisite: OMIS 357. (3 units)

OMIS 696. Experimental Course
Covers special topics; offered on an occasional basis. (3 units)

OMIS 853. Statistical Methods and Decision Analysis
This course is designed to provide an overview of the basic topics in business statistics as well as integrating that discussion with decision analysis. Topics include basic probability laws including Venn diagrams, unions and intersections, discrete and continuous probability distributions, sampling distributions, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis. In addition, we will discuss decision trees in deterministic and stochastic environments, and applying Bayes Theorem to decision trees using sample information. Open only to WAMBA program students. (6 units)

OMIS 857. Effective Operations Management Using Decision Models
Making effective operational decisions with the help of spreadsheet models is the focus of this course. The emphasis is on rigorous formulation of business decision problems, obtaining computer-based solutions, and understanding managerial insights. Operational decisions and analytical techniques related to the production of goods and services will be covered. Computer-based methods include forecasting, optimization and sensitivity analysis. Operations management topics also include aggregate capacity planning, inventory management, materials requirement planning, just-in-time systems, scheduling, and quality management. Open to WAMBA program students only. (6 units)