Which of the following is NOT typically included in the operations function?

The operations function within an organization primarily focuses on the processes involved in producing goods and delivering services. Key responsibilities include assuring quality, managing inventories, and deciding facility location, all of which are essential for efficient production and service delivery.

Sales forecasting, while crucial for overall business planning, falls under the domain of marketing or sales rather than operations. It involves predicting future sales based on various factors, which helps to inform inventory levels, production schedules, and other operational decisions. However, it does not directly influence the operations processes themselves; instead, it serves as input for operations but is not an operational activity in its own right. Thus, this makes sales forecasting an activity that is not typically included in the operations function.