Final answer:
Value added in Operations Management is the net increase between the output product value and the input material value (option d). It involves enhancing the product's functionality, efficiency, and appeal to increase its worth in the eyes of the customer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Value Added in Operations Management (OM)
Within the scope of Operations Management (OM), the term value added refers to the net increase between the value of the output product and the value of the input material. When OM's transformation role is to 'add value', this typically means enhancing the product's worth in the eyes of the customer through various means. However, it is not limited to customer satisfaction alone. Value can be added by performing activities effectively at minimal costs, customizing products to meet customer needs, or through the infusion of technology and innovation that significantly increases the product's functionality and appeal.
As your question suggests, the net increase between output product value and input material value provides a qualitative measure of the value added. Therefore, the correct answer to your question would be d) the net increase between output product value and input material value. This perspective aligns with the example provided, where the value of physical materials in products like computers is relatively insignificant when compared to the technology and intellectual property that enables the advanced processes.