Operations (business)
Business operations are the activities and processes that create and deliver an organisation’s goods or services. They combine resources such as people, equipment, materials and information to produce outputs and customer experiences. Operations include service delivery as well as manufacturing. In Porter’s value chain, operations is the primary activity transforming inputs into the offering.
Worked example
A furniture maker converts materials into finished furniture, while a repair business coordinates diagnosis, parts and skilled work to deliver a repaired item. Both need capacity, quality and process coordination.
Common mistake
Assuming operations means factories only or using the broad business term to decide an accounting cash-flow classification without applying the reporting requirements.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBL | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |