Hands-On Inventory Management

Better inventory management translates directly into better cash flow for businesses. However, in order to successfully manage inventory, businesses must strike a balance between customer demand and the amount of inventory they keep. Hands-On Inventory Management demonstrates principles key to developing an inventory management process, which will meet customer needs while keeping inventory costs at a level reasonable enough to produce a profit. The text explains basic inventory principles, calculations, and techniques using real-world examples. Different operational situations require different inventory planning and replenishment approaches; hence, this book emphasizes the prerequisites needed for success in a number of different industries. These prerequisites include top management support, a clear definition of responsibilities and alignment of goals throughout the company, as well as uncomplicated item identification. The author stresses the importance of accurate recordkeeping and delineates the most common causes of inaccurate records. He provides solutions to mitigate these causes and demonstrates how businesses can develop and administer a cycle counting program that will lead to a more well-managed physical inventory. Using a building-block approach, Hands-On Inventory Management gives a clear view of what steps must be taken to strike a profitable balance between customer demand and inventory.