| Date | November 2016 | Marks available | 6 | Reference code | 16N.1.SL.TZ0.3 |
| Level | Standard level | Paper | Paper 1 | Time zone | Time zone 0 |
| Command term | Explain | Question number | 3 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
With reference to Medimatters, describe two features of batch production.
Refer to case study: Medimatters
Assuming the production of the lenses is outsourced, explain the differences in how Medimatters would manage operations for its products/goods (the lens) and its service (the app).
Refer to case study: Medimatters
Markscheme
Possible features could include:
- separate groups of products can be produced – useful because different makes of phone may need a different lens
- suitable for likely scale of production about 1000 items: unlikely to be mass produced and job production would not be appropriate
- might involve changeover costs, but lens costs will be small compared with price
- involves holding of stocks. Issue for Medimatters? Or manufacturers?
Accept any other relevant feature.
Mark as 2+2.
Award [1] for each feature identified, and [1] for the development of each of these features in the context of Medimatters, up to a maximum of [2].
If the product/good is to be outsourced as a manufacturer has been identified.
This needs to be managed by:
- explanation does setting a specification for the product
- negotiating a suitable contract that involves both price and quality
- monitoring quality and managing issues if quality is not right
- monitoring delivery and sorting out any issues.
There will be little control by Medimatters.
The app will be in-house. Operations will include:
- designing the app, updating app
- testing the app together with the lens
- ensuring the app provides the service required, responding to feedback.
Medimatters will retain full control
Accept any other relevant analysis.
Marks should be allocated according to the paper 1 markbands for May 2016 forward, section A.
For a theoretical answer award a maximum of [3]. Award a maximum of [3] for only explaining one difference. N.B.: One major difference eg, the extent of control, can lead to a number of consequential differences. In these instances marks are not limited to [3].
If ONLY outsourcing OR the app are explained award a maximum of [3].
If explanation does not effectively bring out the differences award a maximum of [4].
If the explanation of more than one difference is mainly descriptive, but in context, award a maximum of [5].
