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In-depth insights from managing supply chains for over 25+ years

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June 8, 2026
8 min read

What Is the Retail Inventory Method? Formula & Examples

The retail inventory method helps retailers estimate inventory value without conducting a full physical stock count. This guide explains how the method works, how to calculate ending inventory using the cost-to-retail ratio, and where it fits within modern retail operations. You'll also learn the advantages and limitations of the approach, how it compares to FIFO and other valuation methods, and why many retailers are moving beyond estimation with forecasting, replenishment, and inventory planning software. Whether you're in finance, inventory management, or retail operations, understanding the retail inventory method provides valuable context for making smarter inventory decisions.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins
What Is the Retail Inventory Method? Formula & Examples
Dual Sourcing to Increase Supply Chain Resilience 
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February 4, 2026
8 min read

Dual Sourcing to Increase Supply Chain Resilience 

Dual sourcing is a practical strategy for reducing supply chain risk without adding unnecessary complexity. By working with more than one supplier for critical products or materials, businesses can protect availability, respond faster to disruption, and reduce dependence on single points of failure. This guide explains how dual sourcing works, when it makes sense, the benefits and trade-offs to consider, and the best practices that help organisations strengthen resilience while maintaining cost control.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins
What is the Pareto Principle
January 26, 2026
6 min read

What Is the Pareto Principle?

Learn what the Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, means in a business and supply chain context. This guide explains how a small number of activities, products, or decisions often drive the majority of results, with practical examples from productivity and inventory management. It also shows how the principle underpins ABC analysis, helping teams prioritise high-impact inventory items and focus resources where they create the most value.
Reorder Point (ROP): Definition, Formula & How to Calculate
January 22, 2026
7 min read

Reorder Point (ROP): Definition, Formula & How to Calculate

Learn how reorder points help balance stock availability and inventory costs. This guide explains what a reorder point is, how it is calculated, and why it plays a critical role in preventing stockouts and overstocking. You will find practical formulas, examples, and planning insights that show how reorder points support more reliable replenishment and smarter inventory decisions across the supply chain.
OTIF on time in full
January 19, 2026
9 min read

OTIF Meaning: Definition, Formula and How to Improve

On time in full (OTIF) is a core supply chain metric that shows whether orders are delivered exactly as promised, both on time and in the correct quantity. This guide explains how OTIF is calculated, why it matters across retail, manufacturing, and distribution, and how different industries apply it in practice. It also covers common OTIF challenges, performance benchmarks, and proven ways to improve service levels through better forecasting, inventory policies, and supply chain visibility.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins
Safety stock
January 15, 2026
10 min read

Safety Stock: Definition, Importance and How to Calculate

Safety stock is the buffer inventory that protects availability when demand or supply does not go to plan. It absorbs forecast errors, supplier delays, and demand spikes while helping businesses maintain service levels without tying up unnecessary working capital. Understanding how to calculate and manage safety stock is essential for balancing risk, cost, and customer satisfaction in modern inventory planning.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins
January 12, 2026
8 min read

AI Inventory Optimisation: Definition, Benefits and How it Works

AI inventory optimisation helps businesses manage stock more intelligently by connecting demand forecasting, inventory policies, and replenishment decisions in one adaptive system. Instead of relying on static rules, AI continuously learns from demand signals, supplier performance, and real-time inventory data. The result is fewer stockouts, less excess inventory, and more confident decision-making under uncertainty. This guide explains how AI inventory optimisation works today and why it has become a practical capability for modern supply chain teams.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins

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