We often refer to these items as political or strategic, and the most common arguments for keeping them in stock are:
- The items need to be kept in stock because of contractual agreements
- The items may not be selling, but they are part of an active product range
- The sales department is arguing that the items are strategically important, based on their experience
These arguments may be supported by good reasoning, but my question is; does it make sense to hold inventory managers accountable for a part of the inventory that is kept for politically reasons? How can you possibly manage something that is out of your control?
Responsibility and authority must go hand in hand!
Let the people who decide take responsibility. It is the only way to succeed when it comes to optimizing inventory.
What do you think? Feel free to comment in either Danish or English!