Inventory Planning In Small Business

Abstract

This article is about an inexpensive and easily adaptable inventory maintenance system developed specifically for small business using the commonly available Microsoft Office Excel program. This paper discusses a new system for inventory management that was developed in conjunction with a small business to determine the value, volume, and contribution margins of the product mix.  Other entrepreneurs have subsequently used this system for decision-making concerning the allocation of scarce resources, inventory items stocked, determination of the profitability of individual businesses, and the future potential of the business.  Inventory in small business is a concern for a number of reasons including: existing management systems are expensive; turnover is a major factor in profitability; and profitability is directly attributable to stocking a saleable product mix.  Entrepreneurs must optimize their resources to engender profitability and stability by selling sufficient quantities of desirable products at acceptable prices.