ASSESSMENT TASK 1: KNOWLEDGE TEST Instructions The knowledge test will establish your underpinning knowledge in this unit of competency. Please ensure that you complete the knowledge test in the classroom under the direction of your trainer. The knowledge test must be completed by yourself and not in groups. You can refer to your workbook or research the Internet however you MUST ensure that your answers are in your own words and not copied directly from either the workbook or the Internet. You will need to justify your answers by giving specific workplace examples, scenarios or references to articles and journals. Note: Although you are able to discuss this scenario with your colleagues you MUST NOT copy answers and points from another students who are or have completed this unit competency. If your assessor identifies that your work is not your own and you have copied other students’ work you will be deemed as Not Yet Competent (NYC) for the entire Unit of Competency; you will be advised by SBTA staff of your NYC outcome and further steps, which may include a disciplinary meeting with the Principal. 1.1 What is an operational plan? An operational plan is a detailed pan used to provide a clear picture of how a team, section or department will contribute to the achievement of the organisation’s strategic goals. The strategic goals of an organisation are outlined in the strategic or business plan, which highlights the organisation’s intended direction. 1.2 Explain two different models and methods of operational plans. 1. Single Use Plans: These plans are created for events or activities with a single occurrence. This can be a one-time sales program, a marketing campaign, a recruitment device. Single use plans tend to be highly specific. 2. Ongoing plans: These can be used in multiple settings on an ongoing basis. Ongoing plans can be of different types. Policy is a general document that dictates how managers should approach a problem. Rules are specific regulations according to which an organisation functions. A procedure describes a step-by-step process to accomplish a particular objective. 1.3 Why is consultation an integral part of an operational plan and explain who you should consult when developing an operational plan? Developing an operational plan cannot happen in isolation or without access to appropriate documentation. Therefore, a manager need to develop the necessary processes to obtain information about the resources needed and consult widely. For consultation to be effective, all stakeholders must have the opportunity to contribute to team and individual operational plans. It is also important that I am fair when consulting with all relevant employees so they have an opportunity to provide input. 1.4 Who are the personnel who must approve your operational plan and the reasons why they must be consulted? After I gather input through consultation, as time goes on stakeholders will increasingly wonder what is happening about the my operational plan therefore, they would review the operational plan and I need to get approve to implement the operational plan. It is therefore important that I communicate the outcomes of my consultation, the decisions that have been made and the actions to will be taken. 1.5 Explain why you should include “key performance indicators” in your operational plan? Key performance indicators an important part of the information required to determine and explain how a company progresses towards its business operational plan. Also, a key performance indicator is a quantifiable measure a company uses to determine how well it meets the set operational plan. Key performance indicators are important to an operational plan because they help it focus on common goals and ensure those goals stay aligned within the organisation. 1.6 It is important to incorporate contingency plans at appropriate stages of operational planning. Explain the importance of this? 1.7 In order for an operational plan to be successful, it is important to get all parties on board? Explain why? 1.8 Explain why having a sound knowledge and understanding of budgets or finances is important in operational planning? 1.9 Physical resources and services should be acquired in line with organisational policies and procedures. Explain what policies and procedures should an organisation have in place? 1.10 What process should you have in place as a manager to review and monitor your operational plan and explain the importance of regular review and monitoring? 1.11 Explain what skills are required to be an effective coach in the workplace to manage poor work performance. 1.12 It is important that operational plans are monitored to measure its effectiveness. Explain what technology or software you could use to assist you with this process. l .