Here's how you can excel as an exceptional inventory manager and stand out from the average ones.

Es importante definir , si es gestión del inventario partiendo de la planeación o solamente de la administración física de las existencias. Son dos mundos que se tocan , pero que funcionan en ámbitos muy diferentes . La planeación esta relacionada con la confiabilidad y el tiempo de suministro del componente o componentes que integran el inventario y esto es una técnica de planificación. La administración física pasa por la capacidad de recibir y contabilizar adecuadamente , hacer un acomodo adecuado , hacer conteos cíclicos adecuados para validar las existencias y validar el uso o desplazamiento con una gran exactitud . Son disciplinas y capacidades diferentes , que si bien están relacionadas , no son lo mismo.

Communication is key. Foster strong relationships with suppliers and coordinate effectively with warehouse staff and other departments. Leverage technology like inventory management software for realtime tracking and data analysis to optimize inventory turnover and reduce costs. Stay proactive by continuously analyzing data and implementing strategies to enhance efficiency and minimize disruptions.

The first things that one needs to do before even getting into Inventory Management is to understand Inventory in terms of- - Types - Nature - Flow - Consumption - Effect/ Impact on various functions. Understanding the co-relation and how various departments affect Inventory. - How it is managed & handled To master Inventory management, having a thorough understanding of these is a MUST as then only will one be able to devise/ create a wholistic approach/ strategy

Mastering data is key. Don't be frightened to spend up to three months rigorously reviewing data to ensure you are acting from a factual standpoint. Simplify your stocking policy - I like things in 3's. category one (high use items, large safety margin, never run out and monitor inbound supplier performance tightly, making adjustments for any uncertainties than maintain you NEVER running out of these items). Category 2, min-/max items that have a stock level that rarely goes outside of your min max. Arguably these need even greater levels of acute stock management. And category three's, OTB/On-demand items that are bought in once you have an order and are supplied on-demand only (non-stock). Have a stocking policy that is sensible.

In my career understanding inventory and the relationship to forecasting is primary. You as an exceptional inventory manager do not have to be the forecaster. However, you need to know the process to keep forecasts accountable. You need data on work in process (WIP), data on product in transit, data on in house inventory quantities, and sales projections with historical consumption. If you can assemble this data on a daily basis you can analyze needs over the next period of time and manage the risk. You can increase inbound or delay inbound shipments. You can speed up outbound shipments or delay them. You can question production quantities and ask for adjustments. It’s a lot to take in but please start the process.

In my experience this is key and getting to know your products and the demographic in the chosen period is important in how the stock is presented by the end user to increase the sales.

When optimising your layout it’s not just about your travelling distances, it is also important to consider your product classifications/types (food safety etc), packaging types (easily crushed, sturdy etc), picking equipment (can you load from both sides or just one). By considering these other factors when planning our layouts we can ensure we have the most efficient, cost effective and appropriate layout. Once we have that we can look at pick rates of items to ensure we eliminate any pinch points in the layout.

As we all know technology keeps advancing. It has helped us tremendously to maintain inventory. I believe ERP softwares have made it simple to view inventory levels. It has also made it easier to optimize inventory by the using the demand planning feature. In addition, it provides us with centralized data in which we can view inventory from multiple locations allowing us to streamline certain processes and reduce errors that can arise when managing inventory manually.

Besides above mentioned factors continuous learning is an instict that will help you to stand out from others. Modern inventory management is something else rather than the traditional one, you always have to stay updated to make policies. Continuous learning mentality will push you to learn more through training, workshop, capacity development program and professional certification programs that will increase your knowledge about market trends, customer behavior, quick decision making in terms of any failures, global crisis, forecasting, feedback model and technology. This continuous learning attitudes will always inspire you to learn something new each and every moment that will drive you to be the best in inventory management.

I have always been the one willing learn new things and continue to elevate. Building good relationships in the work spaces has many benefits. Everyone doesn't want to see others elevating but that's a part of humanity.

Continuous learning is key to developing as a professional. It broadens you perspective about certain processes. Keeping up to date with new processes and ideas will help you grow. As a reward, it will enhance your career advancement and provide new opportunities along the way.

Las metodologias, las herramientas para optimizarlas son esenciales para una buena gestión, sin embargo, considero que aun antes de ello, unas bases solidas en la gestión seran determinantes. Aqui dos de ellas. Orden y limpieza en el almacen es un must. Que a todo movimiento fisico corresponda un movimiento teórico en tipo y cantidad, y viceversa, aun sin grandes sistemas de información te daran buenos resultados.

Here's what else to consider: Implement Efficient Replenishment Strategies: Ensure that you have a well-defined replenishment strategy in place to avoid stockouts and overstocking. Use data analytics and forecasting tools to determine the optimal reorder points and quantities. Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Keep a close eye on important inventory KPIs such as inventory turnover, carrying costs, and stock accuracy. Regularly analyze these metrics to identify areas for improvement. Collaborate with Suppliers: Develop strong relationships with your suppliers. Regularly communicate with them to understand their capabilities, lead times, and any potential disruptions that may impact your inventory levels.