"The development of inventory management is a dynamic activity, with new approaches being made, techniques being refined, and new challenges being met.… It is imperative that [these] challenges are met, since continuing competitiveness is based on ever-improving customer service and ever-reducing inventory costs." —from the text As a vital function of an organization’s operational structure, effective inventory management is key to improving a company’s customer service, cash flow, and ultimately, its profitability margin. While it may sound simple, it is, in fact, far more complex than most managers perceive, requiring very specific knowledge and understanding. It is based upon a framework of unique tools and techniques essential to achieving complete success. Best Practice in Inventory Management gives you these essentials, with in-depth coverage of the latest practices in the field. The book delivers a wealth of solid solutions for lowering inventory overhead, bettering customer relations, and increasing productivity and performance. An ideal reference for APICS certification candidates, as well as participants in training programs, this authoritative resource outlines basic techniques, describes how and where to apply them, and explains how to ensure their effective implementation. The techniques are placed within the context of stores operations, which can be applied in a variety of situations, from manufacturing and distribution to warehousing, consumable stores, and spares and service. Best Practice in Inventory Management follows a logical progression, beginning with targets and moving forward through inventory structuring, individual item control, and coordination. In the process, it probes cutting-edge strategies, including Pareto analysis, Just in Time (JIT), and Material Requirements Planning (MRP), and offers a rational approach to the risks of stockouts. Aided by a host of new applications, practical methods, and real-world examples, you’ll learn to implement a variety of processes vital to inventory structure and control. From effective stock monitoring to forecasting, setting, and assessing stock level guidelines, this book outlines the crucial steps in having suitable product available at an acceptable price and within a reasonable timescale.