Last Updated: Wed, 01/21/2026
Course prefix:
IE
Course number:
3232
Semester:
Spring
Academic year:
2026
Course description:

Methods for describing stochastic movements of material in manufacturing facilities, supply chain, and equipment maintenance networks. Includes analysis of congestion, delays, and inventory ordering policies.

Course learning outcomes:
  1. Describe the role of uncertainty in manufacturing and service systems
  2. Analyze and manage uncertainty in systems dealing with perishable items
  3. Quantify the waiting time, length of the queue, and utilization in queueing systems
  4. Analyze and manage uncertainty in systems using predictions of potential future outcomes
  5. Effectively work as a member of a team to analyze the role of uncertainty in a system and communicate the findings 
Required course materials:

The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement (Second Revised Edition) by E. M. Goldratt and J. Cox, North River Press.

Grading policy:

Biweekly quizzes based on homework, two tests, final exam, written reports on data or software, attendance.

Attendance policy:

Attendance is required unless 24-hour advance notice is given.  

Academic honesty/integrity statement:

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.

Instructor First Name:
Craig
Instructor Last Name:
Tovey
Section:
M09
CRN (you may add up to five):
498516