Question

Every sub-contractor knew that their quality had to be excellent to be considered for the project; it was their ability to deliver on time that would secure the lucrative contract. Quality was recognized as being an ________, but on-time delivery was the ________.

a) Order qualifier, order winner
b) Order winner, order qualifier
c) Order enhancer, order disruptor
d) Order disruptor, order enhancer

Answer 1

Quality is considered the baseline requirement, making it the order qualifier, while the ability to deliver on time is what secures the contract, making it the order winner. So the correct answer is option A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question pertains to concepts within operations management, specifically distinguishing between 'order qualifiers' and 'order winners' in the context of obtaining contracts. An order qualifier is a baseline criterion that allows a company or subcontractor to be considered for a business opportunity; it is a necessary condition but not sufficient to win the business.

On the other hand, an order winner is a decisive factor or distinguishing feature that secures a contract or business deal for a company over its competitors. For the statement given, quality is recognized as an essential factor, and thus it serves as an order qualifier.

All subcontractors knew this was a minimum requirement. However, the ability to deliver on time is what would ultimately secure the lucrative contract, making it the order winner. Therefore, the answer to the question is a) Order qualifier, order winner.