CPIM Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common technique in inventory control?

1. Random sampling

2. Value stream mapping

3. Just-in-time inventory

4. Historical analysis

The correct answer is: Just-in-time inventory

Just-in-time inventory is a widely recognized technique in inventory control that focuses on reducing waste by receiving goods only as they are needed in the production process, thus minimizing inventory costs. This approach helps organizations streamline their operations, ensure that inventory levels match demand closely, and maintain operational efficiency by reducing excess stock and the associated carrying costs. While random sampling, value stream mapping, and historical analysis can aid in various aspects of operations and inventory management, they do not serve as primary inventory control techniques in the same way that just-in-time inventory does. Random sampling might be used for quality control or inspection purposes, value stream mapping is more of a process improvement tool, and historical analysis provides insights based on past data but does not directly function as an inventory control method.