Inventory Accuracy: People, Processes, and Technology

by David J. Piasecki

Inventory accuracy starts with an understanding of the conditions under which errors occur and ends with error-resistant processes, intelligent use of technology, a well-trained and highly motivated workforce, and an ongoing process of continuous improvement. In between, there’s cycle counting, root cause analysis, process evaluation, user interface design, procedures, employee training, accountability, control methods, process checks, audits, exception reporting, transaction techniques, measurement, counting methods, bar codes, RF systems, speech-based technology, light systems, and software. Inventory People, Processes, & Technology covers all of these topics and more in a comprehensive treatment of the subject of inventory accuracy in distribution, fulfillment, and manufacturing environments. In addition to documenting the standard tools and techniques used to achieve accuracy, the author provides insights as to why many of the standard solutions don’t provide the best results and offers alternative methods. The focus on practical solutions that take into account the sometimes-conflicting priorities that affect accuracy, results in an approach that not only looks good on paper, but more importantly, works in the real world.

346 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2003

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a particular exciting book and the writer could have benefited from reading “On Writing Well.” Still, much of the advice in this book does not just apply to inventory management. A lot of practical advice for people dealing with any complex system.

It’s best summarized by a paraphrase of the final paragraph:

“The best single piece of advice I can give is ‘think.’ Think hard about objectives. Think hard about potential problems. Think hard about processes to reduce, eliminate, or compensate for potential problems.”

Basically, shit happens. Sometimes you can anticipate what that might be and sometimes you can’t. But too often people don’t put in the effort to really think hard about that shit.

So, in conclusion, think. That’s pretty good advice.