Inventory Optimization in Manufacturing Organizations Scott Iw Lliam Lemke Walden University
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Walden University ScholarWorks Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection 2015 Inventory Optimization in Manufacturing Organizations Scott iW lliam Lemke Walden University Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations Part of the Business Administration, Management, and Operations Commons, Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Commons, and the Operational Research Commons This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection at ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Walden University College of Management and Technology This is to certify that the doctoral study by Scott Lemke has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Charlotte Carlstrom, Committee Chairperson, Doctor of Business Administration Faculty Dr. Judith Blando, Committee Member, Doctor of Business Administration Faculty Dr. Al Endres, University Reviewer, Doctor of Business Administration Faculty Chief Academic Officer Eric Riedel, Ph.D. Walden University 2015 Abstract Inventory Optimization in Manufacturing Organizations by Scott Lemke MBA, University of St. Thomas, 2002 MMSE, University of St. Thomas, 1992 BMech, University of Minnesota, 1980 BA, Hamline University, 1978 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University July 2015 Abstract Inventories totaling 1.7 trillion U.S. dollars represent an opportunity for U.S. manufacturers. This exploratory case study researched supply chain strategies used to manage inventory in manufacturing operations of a U.S. manufacturing company. A mature value chain contained within a single organization using the value chain framework was the basis for this study. Individual interviews conducted with 16 managers responsible for defining and implementing inventory control strategies, and 4 internal users provided primary information for the study. Other sources of information included a value chain map created through the observation of operations, various inventory measurements, and policies and guidelines related to managing inventory levels. An inductive content analysis employing zero-level coding of the interview transcripts identified 4 themes that describe inventory control strategies as economic order quantity, kanban, vendor managed inventory, and process integration. Physical observation of the value chain, review of supporting documents, and analysis of inventory data ensured the trustworthiness of interpreted themes. Findings identified no single inventory control strategy that fit all applications. Findings also revealed that the financial governing bodies’ measurements were not the best tools for operational managers’ improvement activities related to inventory control. Included are measures providing alternative means to gauge inventory efficiency. With the results of this study, managers may develop effective strategies to optimize inventory and improve material flow. Manufacturing managers improving material flow may promote sustainability of raw materials and business efficiencies through reduced waste, improved environmental conditions, and increased employment opportunities in associated communities. Inventory Optimization in Manufacturing Organizations by Scott Lemke MBA, University of St. Thomas, 2002 MMSE, University of St. Thomas, 1992 BMech, University of Minnesota, 1980 BA, Hamline University, 1978 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University July 2015 Dedication I dedicate this study to my spouse, Jeanne, and my daughters, Jenny, Angie, Boo, and Emma, who encouraged me to continue learning, helped Dad with new technology, and allowed quiet time for study. Acknowledgments I am extremely appreciative of my chair, Dr. Charlotte Carlstrom (Dr. C), for her continued guidance, support, and patience while I developed writing skills and her encouragement to stay continue the study. I would like to thank Dr. Judith Blando, Dr. Al Endres, and Dr. Gene Fusch for reviewing thoughts into a professional presentation. Their insights made this study possible. Thanks to my colleagues and coworkers for their support of my entire program. Table of Contents List of Tables .......................................................................................................................v Section 1: Foundation of the Study ......................................................................................1 Background of the Problem ...........................................................................................1 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................2 Purpose Statement ..........................................................................................................3 Nature of the Study ........................................................................................................4 Research Question .........................................................................................................7 Interview Questions ................................................................................................ 7 Conceptual Framework ..................................................................................................8 Definition of Terms......................................................................................................12 Assumptions, Limitations, and Delimitations ..............................................................17 Assumptions .......................................................................................................... 17 Limitations ............................................................................................................ 17 Delimitations ......................................................................................................... 19 Significance of the Study .............................................................................................20 Contribution to Business ....................................................................................... 20 Implications for Social Change ............................................................................. 22 i A Review of the Professional and Academic Literature ..............................................23 Business Case........................................................................................................ 24 Evolution of the Manufacturing Processes Affecting Inventory .......................... 36 Supply Chain Management ................................................................................... 41 Reasons for Inventory ........................................................................................... 43 Inventory Optimization Tools ............................................................................... 56 Transition and Summary ..............................................................................................82 Section 2: The Project ........................................................................................................84 Purpose Statement ........................................................................................................84 Role of the Researcher .................................................................................................85 Participants ...................................................................................................................86 Research Method and Design ......................................................................................88 Method .................................................................................................................. 88 Research Design.................................................................................................... 91 Population and Sampling .............................................................................................93 Ethical Research...........................................................................................................95 Data Collection ............................................................................................................96 Instruments ............................................................................................................ 96 ii Data Collection Technique ................................................................................... 98 Data Organization Techniques ............................................................................ 100 Data Analysis .............................................................................................................102 Reliability and Validity ..............................................................................................106 Reliability ............................................................................................................ 106 Validity ..............................................................................................................