In the 1980s the level of interest of businessmen and academics shown in the subject area of production/operations management (POM) has risen. Stimulated by the impact of world competition they are increasingly recognising the contribution which POM can make to business success. This has led to increasing awareness of manufacturing strategy which is currently underdeveloped. Industry is looking towards the academic world to contribute to the development of its conceptual base. At present the POM subject area is wide‐ranging and relatively under‐sourced in academic institutions. It is necessary to define the boundaries of manufacturing strategy, to establish academic course orientation, the predominant level of learning, course aims and appropriate areas of learning. Some basic teaching issues are outlined including a framework for reflecting manufacturing policy issues in corporate decisions, and ways to develop key issues within a teaching programme.