Which of the following is NOT an operations management strategy during the introduction stage of the product life cycle?

• A. Long production runs.
• B. Limited models.
• C. High production costs.
• D. Extensive marketing.

Answer: (A)

In the introduction stage of the product life cycle, operations management is typically focused on establishing a product in the market and ensuring that it meets initial demand. During this phase, companies often operate with limited production runs to maintain flexibility and reduce risk, as demand is uncertain and can fluctuate significantly.

Long production runs are generally associated with later stages in the product life cycle, particularly when demand stabilizes and companies can take advantage of economies of scale. Therefore, having long production runs is not a common strategy during the introduction stage. Instead, businesses tend to allocate resources more conservatively to adapt to the potentially shifting market dynamics.

Limited models are usually a characteristic of the introduction stage as the focus is on a few core offerings that highlight the product’s unique features. High production costs can also be a reality due to the initial investment in production capabilities and lower production volumes. Extensive marketing is crucial for building awareness and encouraging early adopters to try the product, which aligns with the objectives during this stage.

Consequently, the option dealing with long production runs accurately reflects an approach that does not fit well with operations management strategies typically employed during the introduction stage of a product.