Applying the Learning Curve Theory

Applying the Learning Curve Theory
OPS/571
Applying the Learning Curve Theory
The fundamental thought behind the learning curve theory is the improvement in the performance of a process due to repetition of tasks executed by individuals or organizations over and over again. According to Chase, Jacobs, and Aquilano (2006), the learning curve theory is based on three assumptions as follows:
  1. The amount of time required to complete a given task or unit of a product will be less each time the task is undertaken
  2. The unit time will decrease at a decreasing rate
  3. The reduction in time will follow a predictable pattern
The Pizza Store Layout simulation utilizes the family-owned Mario’s Pizzeria to demonstrate the learning curve theory. In this simulation, the goal is to reduce the waiting time in the restaurant by optimizing the processes for the peak time in the restaurant to maximize the benefits. The learning curve would play a critical role here, taking into consideration the training time that will go into implementing methods that will reduce wait time and improve productivity. These methods include the purchase of the new automatic order taking system Menu Point and the new Plax Ovens.
Learning Curve Concepts to Test Alternative Process
In order to maximize the benefits and optimize the peak time processes, the first few weeks were spent observing the operations of the restaurant in order to improve the amount of time spent waiting in the queue at Mario’s Pizzeria. The process performance data for the performance metrics identified in the Pizza Store Layout Simulation is as follows:

Scenario Number | Weeks | Customers for Group of 2 | Customers for Group of 4 | Average Wait Time (Min) | Average Queue Length | Profit |
1 | 0 | 70 | 106 | 11.67 | 3.21 | 1054 |
2 | 1-2 | 71 | 105 | 6.46 | 2.56 | 1120 |
3 | 3-4 | 72 | 104 | 5.38 | 2.58 | 1509 |
4 | 5-6 | 67 | 109 | 4.34 | 2.46 | 1665 |
5 | 7-8 | 91 | 148 | 3.15 | 2.81 | 2061...