Optimize Your Organizational Structure

It’s best to separate the forecasting/ordering function from the merchandise analysis/product selection function. A control buyer who hasn’t selected the product will be much more objective about how to forecast it. However, the control buyers and other buyers must communicate regularly and partner in dealing with vendors. That’s also why it’s unwise to have the inventory function report to a financial or warehouse director. Vendors must know that everyone at a company speaks with one voice.