The document discusses recent trends in production and operational management, including global competition, supply chain management, business process reengineering, total quality management, lean manufacturing, worker involvement, and cycle time reduction. Companies go global to reduce costs, improve supply chains, access international markets, and respond to demand changes. Supply chain management oversees materials, information, and finance as they move from supplier to manufacturer. Business process reengineering and total quality management aim to improve processes, products, services, and company culture. Lean manufacturing works to eliminate waste from production. Worker involvement and cycle time reduction can help companies gain competitive advantages.