Tom, Dan, and Philip work in different teams at Springfield Automobiles. Tom’s team
ensures that all the raw materials, machinery, tools, and other production equipment are
available for the employees around the clock. Any procurement needs have to be
addressed to Tom, who also takes part in high-level decisions regarding the number of
units to be produced, exported, and so on. Dan works as part of a team of eight members
who concentrate on the day-to-day production; they also ensure the quality checks are
done and inspect each other’s work. Philip is the operations manager, who works for five
hours in the production department and then spends the rest of his time assisting
management as an internal consultant on manufacturing issues. His input is crucial in
improving the production process.
Dan’s contribution is toward the _____.