Inventory represents one of the largest investments—and one of the most under-optimized levers—within the supply chain. When managed strategically, inventory optimization can unlock significant improvements in service, cash flow, and operational efficiency. When mismanaged, it quietly erodes performance through excess, obsolescence, and stock-outs. This webinar provides a practical, end-to-end look at what inventory optimization really means, why it matters, and how organizations can implement proven strategies to balance service levels, cost, and risk.

Participants will gain insights into:

•        What Inventory Optimization Is A clear definition and how it differs from traditional inventory management.

•        Why Inventory Optimization Is Critical The impact on working capital, customer service, resilience, and overall supply chain performance.

•        Key Inventory Categories Understanding the role and tradeoffs of:

·         Safety stock

·         Cycle stock

·         Pipeline stock

·         Excess and obsolete (E&O) inventory

•        Core Inventory Optimization Strategies Including:

·         ABC-XYZ classification

·         SKU rationalization

·         Service level segmentation

·         Replenishment frequency strategies by ABC-XYZ class

·         Regionalization and network considerations

•        Essential Inventory Management Processes Best practices for:

·         Inventory forecasting

·         Regular safety stock reviews

·         Monitoring adherence to planning parameter guidelines

·         Establishing and sustaining a monthly E&O review process

•        Measuring Inventory Performance How to monitor and improve results using:

·         Impact metrics

·         Achievement metrics

·         Effectiveness metrics

·         Continuous improvement metrics

•        Common Inventory Optimization Challenges Organizational, data, process, and behavioral barriers—and how to address them.

•        Inventory Optimization Approaches Practical frameworks and methods to begin or enhance your optimization journey.

The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A

ISM-Western New York: Inventory Optimization: The Untapped Supply Chain Lever