The document outlines various inventory management techniques, processes, and best practices to optimize stock levels and improve efficiency in businesses. Key techniques include Just-in-Time inventory, ABC Analysis, and Economic Order Quantity, while best practices emphasize the use of inventory management systems and regular audits. Additionally, it discusses different inventory management systems, such as manual, barcode, and cloud-based systems, to enhance tracking and organization.
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Purchasing Management
The document outlines various inventory management techniques, processes, and best practices to optimize stock levels and improve efficiency in businesses. Key techniques include Just-in-Time inventory, ABC Analysis, and Economic Order Quantity, while best practices emphasize the use of inventory management systems and regular audits. Additionally, it discusses different inventory management systems, such as manual, barcode, and cloud-based systems, to enhance tracking and organization.
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NAME REGISTRATION SIGNATURE
NO BRANDON BBM/1479/23 ODHIAMBO CAROL SILA BBM/0320/23 SUSAN BBM/1480/21 NYAMBURA ELVIS BEJA BBM/1680/22 KIDERI
COURSE TITTLE; PURCHASING MANAGEMENT
COURSE CODE;BBM 340
Inventory Management Techniques Inventory management techniques help businesses optimize stock levels, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. Some key techniques include:
1. Just-in-Time (JIT) Inventory — Stock is replenished only when needed, reducing
storage costs and waste. 2. ABC Analysis — Classifies inventory into three categories: o A: High-value, low- quantity items o B: Moderate-value, moderate-quantity items o C: Low-value, high- quantity items 3. First-In, First-Out (FIFO) — Oldest stock is sold first, preventing obsolescence. 4. Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) — Newest stock is sold first, beneficial for inflationary environments. 5. Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) — A formula-based approach to determine the ideal order quantity, balancing order and holding costs. 6. Reorder Point Formula — Establishes when new stock should be ordered to avoid shortages. 7. Safety Stock — Maintains extra inventory as a buffer against demand fluctuations. 8. Dropshipping — A method where products are shipped directly from the supplier to the customer, reducing the need for storage. 9. Batch Tracking — Groups items into batches for better traceability.
Inventory Management Process
1. Demand Forecasting — Estimating future sales to plan inventory levels. 2. Inventory Procurement — Ordering stock from suppliers based on forecasts. 3. Receiving & Inspection — Checking stock for quality and quantity upon arrival. 4. Storage & Organization — Arranging inventory efficiently to facilitate access and minimize damage. 5. Tracking & Updating — Using manual or automated systems to track stock movements. 6. Order Fulfillment — Picking, packing, and shipping orders to customers. 7. Stock Auditing — Regular cycle counting and full inventory checks to ensure accuracy. 8. Replenishment — Reordering stock based on predefined thresholds.
Best Practices for Managing Inventories
Use an Inventory Management System (IMS) — Automate tracking to reduce human errors. Adopt Barcode or RFID Tracking — Enhances accuracy and efficiency. Optimize Warehouse Layout — Reduces picking time and enhances workflow. Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) — Track inventory turnover, order accuracy, and stockout rates. Implement Supplier Relationship Management — Strengthen partnerships for better lead times and pricing. Regular Audits & Cycle Counting — Ensures data accuracy and prevents discrepancies. Minimize Dead Stock — Regularly evaluate and discount slow-moving items. Use Cloud-Based Systems — Enhances accessibility and scalability.
Inventory Management Methods & Strategies
Push vs. Pull Strategies — o Push: Inventory is produced in advance based on forecasts. o Pull: Inventory is replenished based on demand. Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) — The supplier manages stock levels at the retailer's location. Perpetual Inventory System — Continuously updates inventory records with real- time data. Periodic Inventory System — Conducts stock checks at scheduled intervals. Consignment Inventory — Supplier retains ownership of inventory until sold. Cross-Docking — Reducing storage needs by transferring incoming stock directly to outgoing shipments.
Inventory Management Systems
These systems help businesses track, organize, and optimize inventory. Types include:
1. Manual Inventory Systems — Spreadsheets or paper-based tracking, suitable for
small businesses. 2. Barcode & REID Systems — Automate data entry and improve accuracy. 3. Cloud-Based Inventory Systems — Accessible from anywhere, integrating with ecommerce and POS systems. 4. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems — Comprehensive software that integrates inventory with financials, HR, and supply chain management. 5. Al & IoT-Enabled Systems — Predict demand, automate replenishment, and improve real-time tracking.
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REFERENCE;
1.Chopra,S and Meindl,P.(2019).Supply Chain Management;Strategy,planning
and operation(7th e.d.).Pearson. 2.Waters,D.(2019).Inventory Control and Management (3rd e.d.).Wiley 3.Richards,G.(2017).Warehouse Management;A complete guide to improving efficiency and minimizing costs in the modern warehouse (2nd e.d.).Kogan Page