What is Business operations?

Business operations refer to all tasks, activities, and business plans that help keep a company running and earning a profit. These operational efficiencies are vital for business growth and success. 

Since business operations is such a broad term, the processes involved can be  different for each company. For example, a supermarket will have different tasks than a sole business owner of an online jewellery store. The supermarket needs point-of-sale registers, while the online store requires an e-commerce software for online purchasing.

What are the elements of business operations?

Although every business is different and has different processes, there are four general elements that are pretty consistent between businesses:

  • Process relates to the initiatives businesses use to complete their daily tasks and requirements. They should be documented so that project management can look at these processes and analyse their effectiveness, along with searching for gaps and improvements. The documentation of business processes also helps train new employees.
  • Staff relates to the type and amount of people needed to complete the work outlined in  business processes. For example, a large franchise would need many workers who specialise in certain areas and departments, while a small business may only need a few employees with an overall knowledge.
  • Location depends on the business, and is more important for some than others. For instance, a catering company needs access to a kitchen, while a sole accountant may be able to work within their home.
  • Technology and equipment often impacts the location of a business, as different businesses need different tools essential to their daily operations. As an example, a catering company would need a space that has a large kitchen to accommodate the amount of cooking they are doing. However, an accountant working for themselves may only need room for a desk and computer, therefore be able to to work in a smaller space.

What skills and qualities should I have as a business operations manager?

An operations manager oversees all of the departments and business functions. They are responsible for streamlining the company and its departments, building relationships with people within the business, analysing metrics and ensuring business goals are being met.

To be a successful business operations manager, you need to think critically and analytically. It is also essential to be a quick thinker and problem solver, since a business operations manager is responsible for streamlining departments with the business strategy and workflow. Operations managers should also be personable and have good communication skills.

What qualifications do I need to become a business operations manager?

Higher education is required to become a business operations manager. Most operations managers complete an undergraduate degree in business, but there are lower-level courses that you can complete to be qualified. Training.com.au has a variety of courses available ranging from all different levels, such as a Certificate IV in Business (Operations) or a Diploma of Business (Operations). Completing a Diploma of Business provides a pathway to studying a Bachelor of Business at multiple universities.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to be a business operations manager, enquire about our available courses today!