What are the advantages and disadvantages of "just-in-time Inventory" for a company?

Purchasing and Supply Chain Management
6th Edition
ISBN:9781285869681
Author:Robert M. Monczka, Robert B. Handfield, Larry C. Giunipero, James L. Patterson
Publisher:Robert M. Monczka, Robert B. Handfield, Larry C. Giunipero, James L. Patterson
Chapter16: Lean Supply Chain Management
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 10DQ: The chapter presented various approaches for the control of inventory investment. Discuss three...
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What are the advantages and disadvantages of "just-in-time Inventory" for a company?

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Step 1

Just-in-time or JIT inventory system is a popular management strategy that is used to minimize inventory usage and increase efficiency. It was firstly used in the Toyota manufacturing plant in order to meet their demand with minimum delay time.

Step 2

JIT is a method where raw materials and labours are scheduled to arrive at the time when needed in the production process. Example, Apple, Amazon and Toyota use the JIT methodology successfully. There are certain advantages of using JIT inventory for a company which are as follows:

  • Lesser storage space needed: JIT requires less warehouse space because of faster turnaround of stocks. Also, this adequate area allows companies to use it for other purposes.It also means savings in terms of goods insurance and renting a place. With lower amounts of goods being stored, less transportation costs and inventory maintenance cost is achieved.
  • Reduced costs: Reduced costs are one of the most impactful benefits of this system. Various costs associated with ordering inventories such as carrying costs and ordering costs are taken care of. Companies are able to maintain a healthy cash flow system.
  • Benefit to small companies: Since smaller investments are done in order to maintain inventories, smaller companies should go for JIT so as to meet the inventory requirements when needed. They do not have to invest more in storing inventories.
  • Prevents overproduction: With limited resources and raw materials to be used in production, JIT helps in overproduction of finished goods which helps in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness.
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