Inventory Management: An Integrated, Disciplined Process ...

To make matters worse, catalogers often set P&L responsibilities that are by nature conflicting. Best industry practices recommend that inventory and merchandising jointly are responsible for company fill rates and overstock levels, reinforcing a team approach.

This team approach can further be reinforced in developing vendors relationships. Too often vendors provide differing lead times to buyers and inventory control personnel. When these areas work together, vendors realize that both departments speak with one voice. That improves information flow and accuracy with receipt planning and fill rates.