After early sales gains with a five-minute oil change offering, Delta Oils witnesses a slump in business. The owner decides to research the oil change consumer. The case introduces students to the design of a consumer study; specifically, the design, sequencing, formulation, administration and interpretation of a survey on consumer behaviours surrounding oil changes in passenger vehicles. A follow-up case Delta Oil Outlets (B) is available.
A survey of the oil change consumer has been completed for Delta Oil. The student must analyze the results and report conclusions and recommendations to Delta Oil management. The case presents the actual results of an extensive consumer survey. Delta Oil (B) introduces basic analytical techniques for market research: stratified and segmented sampling, analysis of frequency distributions and cross-tabulations. The importance of sampling methods and sample size can also be addressed. A Note on Reading a Crosstab Table (9A97K002) is also available. Delta Oil Outlets (A), which challenges students to design a research study for the company, should be taught, or at least reviewed, before addressing Delta Oil (B).
The assistant plant manager was trying to decide on production scheduling and inventory management policies for the new computer diskette plant. Students are presented with three demand forecasts of increasing complexity as variability between and within product lines emerges. The case is suitable for students to do an economic order quantity (EOQ) analysis and draft a production schedule.