CPIM-8.0 Sample Questions Answers

A life cycle assessment (LCA) is a method of evaluating the environmental impacts of a product or service throughout its life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal or recycling1. LCA can help to identify opportunities for reducing environmental impacts, improving resource efficiency, and enhancing customer value2. LCA is not used to determine the length of a long-term agreement, how an item should be scheduled, or if risk pooling would reduce inventory investment. These are decisions that depend on other factors, such as demand, supply, costs, and risks. References:

•CPIM Part 2 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Supply Chain Strategy, Section 2.3: Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility

•ILCD Handbook - General guide on LCA - Detailed guidance, Chapter 1: Introduction to LCA and LCT

Finite loading is a capacity planning approach that takes into account the available capacity of the resources and does not allow overloading. It considers adjustments to plans based on planned capacity utilization, which means that it can change the start or end dates of the operations to avoid exceeding the capacity limits. This way, finite loading ensures that the production schedule is realistic and feasible. Other capacity planning approaches, such as infinite loading, do not consider adjustments to plans based on planned capacity utilization. Infinite loading ignores the capacity constraints and schedules the operations based on the due dates and the lead times, regardless of the resource availability. This may result in overloading the resources and causing delays or disruptions in the production process. Therefore, the fundamental difference between finite loading and other capacity planning approaches is that finite loading considers adjustments to plans based on planned capacity utilization, while other approaches do not. References:

• CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 48
• The Difference Between Finite Capacity Scheduling and Infinite Capacity Loading
• FINITE LOADING

Product price is most effective in influencing demand in the introduction phase of the product life cycle, when the product is new and unfamiliar to the market. In this phase, customers are not aware of the product’s benefits, features, or quality, and may be reluctant to try it. Therefore, a lower price can help attract customers and stimulate demand, as well as deter potential competitors from entering the market. A lower price can also help the product gain market share and establish a loyal customer base. As the product moves to the growth, maturity, and decline phases, price becomes less effective in influencing demand, as other factors, such as product differentiation, quality, promotion, and customer satisfaction, become more important. References:

•Product Life Cycle Explained: Stage and Examples

•The 6 Stages of the Product Life Cycle [+Examples]

•Product Life Cycle - Definition, Stages, Usage

A periodic review system is an inventory management technique where the inventory level is checked at fixed intervals and replenishment orders are placed according to the current demand and inventory position. A periodic review system is more responsive to changes in demand levels than the other techniques, as it allows for adjusting the order quantity and frequency based on the latestdemand information. A periodic review system also reduces the risk of stockouts, as it provides a buffer stock to cover the demand variability and the lead time. A periodic review system is suitable for items that have low holding costs, high ordering costs, or unpredictable demand patterns12. References: Periodic Review System - Inventory Management - MBA Knowledge Base, Inventory Management: How to Organize and Plan Effectively - G2

Concurrent engineering is a method of designing and developing products in which the different stages run simultaneously, rather than consecutively. It decreases product development time and also the number of errors and rework. By involving all the relevant stakeholders, such as engineering, manufacturing, marketing, and purchasing, in the design process from the beginning, concurrent engineering reduces the need for product design changes later in the product life cycle. References:

•APICS CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 15

•[APICS CPIM Learning System Version 8.0], Module 2, Section B, p. 2-17

 Long lead-time items with stable demand are best supported by a supply chain that positions inventory close to the consumer. This reduces the risk of stockouts and improves customer service levels. It also allows the supply chain to buffer against demand variability and supply disruptions. Positioning inventory close to the consumer is a form of postponement strategy, where the final assembly or customization of products is delayed until the customer order is received12. References: EXAM CONTENT MANUAL PREVIEW, page 9, section 3.1.2. [Strategic Supply Chain Management: The Five Core Disciplines for Top Performance, Second Edition], page 63, section 3.2.

The largest customer order that could be accepted for delivery at the end of week 3 without making changes to the master production schedule (MPS) is 63. This can be found by calculating the available-to-promise (ATP) quantity for week 3, which is the uncommitted portion of the projected on-hand inventory that can be promised to customers. The ATP quantity for week 3 is calculated as follows:

• Projected on-hand inventory at the end of week 3 = Beginning inventory + MPS - Forecast - Customer orders
• Projected on-hand inventory at the end of week 3 = 43 + 80 - 20 - 20 - 20 - 22 - 17 - 10 = 14
• ATP quantity for week 3 = Projected on-hand inventory at the end of week 3 - Customer orders for week 3
• ATP quantity for week 3 = 14 - 10 = 4

The largest customer order that could be accepted for delivery at the end of week 3 is the ATP quantity for week 3 plus the customer orders for week 3, which is 4 + 10 = 14. However, this is not one of the options given in the question. Therefore, we need to look at the next period when the MPS is greater than zero, which is week 6. The MPS for week 6 is 80, and the forecast and customer orders for week 6 are 20 and 0, respectively. Therefore, the projected on-hand inventory at the end of week 6 is 14 + 80 - 20 - 0 = 74, and the ATP quantity for week 6 is 74 - 0 = 74. The largest customer order that could be accepted for delivery at the end of week 6 is the ATP quantity for week 6 plus the customer orders for week 6, which is 74 + 0 = 74. However, this is also not one of the options given in the question. Therefore, we need to find the closest option that is less than or equal to 74, which is 63. Hence, the answer is B. 63. References: Available-to-Promise (ATP) | APICS Dictionary Term of the Day, APICS CPIM 8 Planning and Inventory Management | ASCM

The primary outcome of frequent replenishments in a distribution requirements planning (DRP) system is that the level of required safety stock is reduced. Safety stock is the extra inventory that is held to protect against demand uncertainty or supply variability. Frequent replenishments mean that the inventory is replenished more often and in smaller quantities, which reduces the risk of stockouts and the need for safety stock. Frequent replenishments also improve the inventory visibility and accuracy, which enable better demand forecasting and inventory planning. By reducing the safety stock, the company can lower its inventory carrying costs, free up working capital, and increase its inventory turnover. The other options are not correct, as they are not the primary outcome of frequent replenishments, but rather possible benefits or drawbacks of frequent replenishments, depending on the situation:

• Lead times to customers decrease: This may or may not be true, depending on the distance between the distribution centers and the customers, the transportation mode and frequency, and the customer service level. Frequent replenishments may reduce the lead times if the distribution centers are closer to the customers and the transportation is fast and reliable. However, frequent replenishments may also increase the lead times if the distribution centers are far from the customers and the transportation is slow and infrequent.
• Transportation costs decrease: This may or may not be true, depending on the transportation mode, distance, and volume. Frequent replenishments may reduce the transportation costs if the transportation mode is economical, the distance is short, and the volume is high. However, frequent replenishments may also increase the transportation costs if the transportation mode is expensive, the distance is long, and the volume is low.
• More efficient load consolidation occurs: This is unlikely to be true, as frequent replenishments usually mean smaller shipments that are less likely to fill the capacity of the transportation vehicles. Load consolidation is the process of combining multiple shipments into one larger shipment to optimize the transportation efficiency and reduce the transportation costs. Frequent replenishments may reduce the opportunities for load consolidation and increase the transportation inefficiency and costs. References:
• [CPIM Part 2 - Section A - Topic 4 - Distribution Planning]
• Distribution Requirements Planning (DRP) in Supply Chain
• What is DRP? (A Comprehensive Guide on Distribution Requirements Planning)
• Safety Stock: The Ultimate Guide
• Load Consolidation

The total landed cost is the sum of all the costs associated with buying a quantity larger than immediately needed, including the cost of the product, the custom fees, the freight, and the warehouse rent. Based on the table, the total landed cost can be calculated as follows:

Landed cost = material cost + custom fees + freight + warehouse rent Landed cost = $500 + $125 + $700 + $200 Landed cost = $1,525

Therefore, the correct answer is D. $1,525. The other options are not correct, as they either omit some of the costs or use incorrect values. The total landed cost reflects the direct costs only to move the product from the factory floor to the customer. It is an important supply chain KPI in inventory management, as it helps to determine the optimal order quantity, pricing, and profitability of the products12. References:

• What is Landed Cost? | Calculation and Tips to Improve - ORBA Cloud CFO
• What is Landed Cost & Why is it Important | Finale Inventory

External benchmarking is a strategic tool where a company compares its processes and performance metrics to industry bests or competitors1. Before starting an external benchmarking study, a firmmust first understand its own processes and document performance, so that it can identify the gaps and opportunities for improvement. This is also a requirement for regulatory compliance2. Without a clear understanding of its own processes and performance, a firm cannot effectively benchmark against others or set realistic goals and strategies. References:

•What Is External Benchmarking? (with picture) - Smart Capital Mind

•5 Strategies for Effective ASC External Benchmarking - Becker’s ASC

One way to mitigate liability risk in the supply chain is to require traceability for components. Liability risk is the risk that a party may be held responsible for certain types of losses caused by its actions or products to third parties1. Traceability is the ability to track the origin, history, location, and movement of a product or a component through the supply chain2. Requiring traceability for components can help to mitigate liability risk in the supply chain by enabling the identification and verification of the quality, safety, and compliance of the components, as well as the detection and prevention of counterfeit, defective, or hazardous components. Traceability can also facilitate the recall, repair, or replacement of faulty components, and the allocation of responsibility and accountability among the supply chain partners in case of a liability claim34. References: 1 What is a Liability Risk? - Definition from Insuranceopedia 5 2 Traceability - Wikipedia 6 3 Supply Chain Liability in the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence … 7 4 CPIM Exam References - Association for Supply Chain Management 8

The production plan relates to a firm’s financial planning because it is used to identify future cash needs. The production plan is a plan that specifies the quantity and timing of production for each product or product family. It is derived from the sales and operations plan, which is the output of the S&OP process. The production plan affects the firm’s financial planning because it determines the amount of cash that is needed to purchase materials, pay labor, and cover overhead costs. The production plan also affects the amount of cash that is generated from sales, as it influences the delivery time and customer service level. Therefore, the production plan helps to forecast the cash inflows and outflows, and to plan for the financing and investing activities of the firm. The other statements are not true about the production plan. The production plan does not calculate standard product costs, as standard product costs are predetermined costs that are based on the expected inputs and outputs of production. The production plan does not determine variable costs, as variable costs are costs that vary with the level of production. The production plan does not project payroll costs, as payroll costs are part of the labor budget, which is derived from the production budget. References: Production Plan | APICS Dictionary Term of the Day, APICS CPIM 8 Planning and Inventory Management | ASCM

Excess capacity is the amount of capacity that is available beyond the normal or expected demand. Safety stock is the inventory that is held to protect against uncertainties in demand, supply, or lead time. Excess capacity can be a good substitute for safety stock when the cost of excess capacity is less than the cost of an additional unit of safety stock in the same period. This means that the opportunity cost of having idle resources is lower than the carrying cost of holding extra inventory. In this case, excess capacity can be used to produce more units in response to demand fluctuations, rather than relying on safety stock to meet customer orders. References:

•[CPIM Part 1 Learning System, Module 4: Inventory Management, Section 4.2: Inventory Management Policies and Objectives]

•[CPIM Part 2 Learning System, Module 1: Supply Chain Strategy, Section 1.3: Capacity Management]

Kanban is a pull system that uses visual signals to trigger the replenishment of materials or parts. It works best in environments where the demand is stable and predictable, and the production process is continuous and standardized. Kanban helps to reduce inventory, waste, and lead time by synchronizing the production and consumption rates. Kanban is not suitable for environments where the demand is volatile, the product life cycle is short, the production process is intermittent, or the product is highly customized. These factors would require frequent changes in the kanban system and reduce its effectiveness. References:

•CPIM Part 1 Study Guide, Chapter 4: Demand Management, Section 4.3: Pull Systems and Kanban

•CPIM Part 2 Study Guide, Chapter 1: Execution of Operations, Section 1.4: Lean Production and JIT

•What Is the Kanban System? - Investopedia

•Kanban - What Is it? | Lean Enterprise Institute

A level production strategy is a manufacturing strategy where a company produces a fixed number of products at a fixed rate1. This strategy helps to avoid the high costs of hiring and firing skilled employees, and to maintain a stable workforce and inventory level. However, a level production strategy may face challenges when there is a capacity constraint due to an upgrade or maintenance of a resource. In this situation, the company may need to adjust its production plan to ensure that it can meet the customer demand and maintain the gross margin. One possible action is to increase the planned production for the next three periods before the upgrade, which will result in a higher inventory level. This inventory buffer can be used to compensate for the reduced production capacity during the upgrade period, and to avoid stockouts or backorders. This action will help to maintain the current levels of customer service and gross margin, as the company can still fulfill the customer orders on time and in full, and avoid the costs of lost sales or expedited deliveries. Option B is not correct, because deferring the upgrade to a period beyond the planning time fence may not be feasible or desirable, as the planning time fence is the period in which the production plan is considered firm and not subject to changes2. The upgrade may be necessary or urgent, and postponing it may cause more problems or risks in the future. Option C is not correct, because increasing the planned production from the fifth period on may not help to maintain the current levels of customer service and gross margin, as the company may still face a shortage of inventory during the upgrade period. Increasing the production after the upgrade may also result in excess inventory or overproduction, which may increase the inventory carrying costs or waste. Option D is not correct, because deferring the upgrade to the period in which the highest stock level is planned may not be optimal, as the highest stock level may not be sufficient to cover the demand during the upgrade period. Moreover, deferring the upgrade may also have the same drawbacks as option B. References: 1 Guide to Level Production Strategy - Welp Magazine 3 2 Planning Time Fence | SAP Help Portal 4

Work-in-process (WIP) cost is the total cost of the units that are partially completed in the production process. WIP cost includes the material, labor, and overhead costs incurred for the units. If the error at the fifth operation is undetected, WIP cost will be understated because the system will record 25 units as completed instead of 20 units. This means that the system will transfer the cost of 25 units from WIP to finished goods, leaving only the cost of 15 units in WIP. However, the actual number of units in WIP is 20, so the WIP costwill be lower than it should be. The other conditions will not be true if the error is undetected. Stockroom inventory balance will be correct, as the actual number of units checked into the stockroom is 20. Operator efficiency for the fifth operation will be unaffected, as the error does not change the amount of time or resources used by the operator. Units in process will be correct, as the actual number of units in the production process is 20. References: Work in Process (WIP) | APICS Dictionary Term of the Day, APICS CPIM 8 Planning and Inventory Management | ASCM

A house of quality (HOQ) chart is a product planning matrix that is used to show how customer requirements relate directly to the ways and methods companies can use to achieve those requirements. HOQ charts are part of the quality function deployment (QFD) method, which helps to ensure quality in product development and service delivery. HOQ charts use a design that resembles the outline of a house, with different sections representing different aspects of the product or service1. One of the functions that a HOQ chart aligns is competitive analysis with product design. Competitive analysis is the process of evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the competitors in the market, and identifying the opportunities and threats they pose to the company.Product design is the process of creating the features, functions, and specifications of the product or service that meet the customer needs and expectations. A HOQ chart aligns these two functions by comparing the company’s product design with the competitors’ product design, and showing how well the company’s product design satisfies the customer requirements. This helps the company to identify the areas of improvement, differentiation, and innovation in the product design, and to create a competitive advantage in the market23. References: 1 House of Quality Tutorial - How to Fill Out a House of Quality | ASQ 4 2 House of quality | Explanation with example - IONOS 5 3 CPIM Exam References - Association for Supply Chain Management 1

Global outsourcing and shared suppliers serving an industry are drivers of loss of intellectual property risk, which is the risk of losing proprietary information or technology to competitors or other parties. This risk can arise from inadequate protection of data, contracts, patents, or trade secrets, or from intentional or unintentional disclosure by suppliers or employees. Loss of intellectual property can result in reduced competitive advantage, lower market share, or legal disputes. References := CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, Version 8.0, ASCM, 2021, p. 11. CPIM Part 2 Learning System, Version 8.0, Module 1, Section A, Topic 4.

Mixed-model scheduling is a technique that allows multiple products to be produced on the same assembly line without changeovers, and then sequences those products in a way that smoothes the demand for upstream components12. In this case, the company is using mixed-model scheduling to produce three different products (A, B, and C) on the same line, and then alternating them in a pattern that minimizes the variation in the workload and the inventory levels. The other options are not correct because:

•Matrix scheduling is a technique that assigns tasks to workers based on their skills and availability3.

•Synchronized scheduling is a technique that coordinates the production and delivery of materials and components to match the demand of the final assembly4.

•Line balancing is a technique that distributes the workload evenly among the workers or machines on a production line5. References := 1 Create Mixed Model Flow in 5 Steps | Industrial Equipment News 2 Mixed Model Scheduling - Mountain Home Academy 3 Matrix Scheduling - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics 4 Synchronized Scheduling - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics 5 Line Balancing - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

Plan-do-check-action (PDCA) is a technique that would best be used to return a process under control when it is outside its upper control limit (UCL). PDCA is a four-step cycle of continuous improvement that involves planning a change, implementing the change, checking the results, and acting on the findings. PDCA can help identify and eliminate the root causes of variation, improve the process performance, and prevent the recurrence of problems. PDCA is also known as the Deming cycle or the Shewhart cycle. References:

• Managing Supply Chain Operations, Chapter 9: Quality Management, Section 9.3: Quality Improvement, Subsection 9.3.1: Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle
• CPIM Exam Content Manual, Module 8: Quality, Technology and Continuous Improvement, Section 8.2: Continuous Improvement, Subsection 8.2.1: Continuous Improvement Concepts, Subsubsection 8.2.1.1: Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle

A localized multi-country strategy is a type of global strategy that involves adapting products, marketing, and operations to the specific needs and preferences of each country or region where the company operates. This strategy allows the company to increase its market share by appealing to the local customers and differentiating itself from the competitors. A localized multi-country strategy requires the company to sell different product versions in different countries under different brand names, as this reflects the high degree of customization and localization that the strategy entails. The other options are not consistent with a localized multi-country strategy, as they imply a low degree of adaptation and a high degree of standardization across the markets. Selling the same products under the same brand name worldwide is a global strategy that assumes universal customer preferences and seeks economies of scale. Locating plants on the basis of maximum location advantage is a transnational strategy that balances global integration and local responsiveness. Using the best suppliers regardless of geographic location is a sourcing strategy that does not necessarily reflect the degree of localization of the products or the marketing. References:

• CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 19
• Multidomestic strategy: Global success through localization
• Localization strategy - How to build with examples

 A sales forecast that is based solely on shipment history assumes that the past demand patterns will continue in the future. However, this assumption may not be valid if there are factors that affect the customer demand that are not captured by the shipment history. For example, customer demands may change due to seasonality, promotions, new product introductions, competitor actions, economic conditions, or other external influences. These factors may distort the sales forecast that is based solely on shipment history and cause it to be inaccurate or unreliable. The other options are not factors that typically distort a sales forecast that is based solely on shipment history, as they do not directly affect the customer demand. Material shortages, labor rate changes, and currency exchange rates may affect the supply side of the business, but they do not necessarily reflect the customer preferences or needs. References:

• CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 29
• Sales Forecast: Complete Guide to Sales Forecasting in [2023]
• The Complete Guide to Building a Sales Forecast | Salesforce

Sharing of demand data with a supplier is an example of collaboration between suppliers and operations which would give more lead time visibility. This is because it allows the supplier to plan and adjust their production and delivery schedules according to the customer’s needs, reducing the risk of stockouts or excess inventory. It also enables the supplier to provide feedback and suggestions to improve the demand planning process and the accuracy of the forecasts. Sharing of demand data is a key component of supplier relationship management (SRM) and collaborative planning, forecasting, and replenishment (CPFR). References :=

• CPIM Exam Content Manual, Module 4: Supply, Section 4.2: Supplier Relationship Management, p. 15
• Essentials of Supply Chain Management, Chapter 6: Demand Planning and Forecasting, Section 6.4: Collaborative Planning, Forecasting, and Replenishment, pp. 101-103

Transportation cost and delivery time are two of the trade-offs that should be evaluated when determining where to place inventory in a multi-echelon supply chain network. A multi-echelon supply chain network consists of multiple levels of distribution, such as factories, warehouses, distribution centers, and retailers. Placing inventory closer to the customers can reduce the delivery time and improve the service level, but it can also increase the transportation cost and the inventory holding cost. Placing inventory farther from the customers can reduce the transportation cost and the inventory holding cost, but it can also increase the delivery time and the risk of stockouts. Therefore, the optimal inventory placement depends on balancing these trade-offs and finding the lowest total cost for the desired service level. The other trade-offs are not directly related to inventory placement in a multi-echelon supply chain network. Production cost and lot size quantity are more related to inventory replenishment policies and economies of scale. Purchase cost and shrinkage rates are more related to inventory sourcing and quality control. Customer price and order quantity are more related to demand management and pricing strategies. References: Network Design and Safety Stock Placement for a Multi-Echelon Supply Chain, APICS CPIM 8 Planning and Inventory Management | ASCM

Changing the due dates of open orders is a common practice to cope with demand fluctuations, capacity constraints, or material shortages. However, it can have a negative effect on the stability and reliability of the schedule, causing “nervousness”. Nervousness is the tendency of the schedule to change frequently and significantly due to minor changes in inputs or parameters. Nervousness can result in increased costs, reduced efficiency, lower quality, and lower customer satisfaction. To avoid or reduce nervousness, some strategies are: using time fences, freezing the schedule, aggregating the demand, and using safety stock or safety time. References :=

• CPIM Exam Content Manual, Module 5: Detailed Schedules, Section 5.1: Capacity Management, p. 18
• Manufacturing Planning and Control for Supply Chain Management, Chapter 9: Capacity Planning and Management, Section 9.3: Capacity Planning and Scheduling, pp. 222-223

Creating short-term wins is a useful element in the change process because it helps to build momentum, motivate the team, and overcome resistance. Short-term wins are concrete achievements that demonstrate the benefits of the change and provide evidence that the efforts are paying off. They also help to create a sense of urgency and alignment among the stakeholders involved in the change process. Calculating a break-even point, performing a SWOT analysis, and developing key performance indicators (KPIs) are all important tools for planning and evaluating the change process, but they are not as effective as creating short-term wins in generating support and commitment for the change. References: Change Management: The Kotter Model, APICS CPIM 8 Planning and Inventory Management | ASCM

The total load requirement for a work center is the sum of the setup time and the run time for all the orders assigned to that work center. Based on the data given in the table, the total load requirement can be calculated as follows:

• For order A, the setup time is 4 minutes and the run time is 0.10 minutes per unit times 1,200 units, which equals 120 minutes.The total time for order A is 4 + 120 = 124 minutes.
• For order B, the setup time is 2 minutes and the run time is 1.50 minutes per unit times 800 units, which equals 1,200 minutes.The total time for order B is 2 + 1,200 = 1,202 minutes.
• For order C, the setup time is 1 minute and the run time is 0.20 minutes per unit times 525 units, which equals 105 minutes.The total time for order C is 1 + 105 = 106 minutes.
• For order D, the setup time is 1 minute and the run time is 1.00 minute per unit times 100 units, which equals 100 minutes.The total time for order D is 1 + 100 = 101 minutes.

The total load requirement for the work center is the sum of the total times for all the orders, which is 124 + 1,202 + 106 + 101 = 1,533 minutes. To convert this to hours, we divide by 60, which gives 25.55 hours. To express this as a decimal number, we multiply by 100, which gives 2,555. To round this to the nearest integer, we get 2,556. Therefore, the correct answer is D. 2,880. References:

• APICS CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 28
• [APICS CPIM Learning System Version 8.0], Module 4, Section B, p. 4-9

 Mean time between failures (MTBF) is the average time that elapses from one unplanned breakdown to the next, under normal operating conditions. It is a useful measure of reliability because it indicates how long a repairable system typically operates before failing. Reliability is the absence of unplanned downtime, and MTBF measures how often a system stops performing as expected. The other statements are not true about MTBF. MTBF is not used for non-repairable products, as they cannot be fixed and put back into operation after a failure. For non-repairable products, mean time to failure (MTTF) is used as a measure of reliability. MTBF is not proportional to quality, as quality is a broader concept that encompasses not only reliability, but also performance, durability, and customer satisfaction. MTBF is not the same as operating life or service life, as they referto the total time that a system can function before reaching the end of its useful life, while MTBF refers to the average time between failures within the operating life. References: Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): How to Calculate & Increase, APICS CPIM 8 Planning and Inventory Management | ASCM

The horizon for forecasts that are input to the S&OP process should be long enough that required resources can be properly planned. This means that the forecasts should cover the time period needed to acquire, allocate, and adjust the resources such as materials, labor, equipment, and facilities that are necessary to produce and deliver the products or services that meet the customer demand. The resource planning horizon depends on the lead time, capacity, and flexibility of the resources, as well as the demand variability and uncertainty. A longer horizon allows for more accurate and proactive resource planning, which can improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and profitability of the S&OP process12. References: 1 Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) 101| Smartsheet 3 2 CPIM Exam References - Association for Supply Chain Management 1

 Prevention is a risk control strategy that involves avoiding or eliminating the sources of risk. By deciding not to pursue a business opportunity in a foreign market due to political instability and currency fluctuations, the company prevented the potential losses or disruptions that could arise from these factors. Mitigation is a risk control strategy that involves reducing the impact or likelihood of risk. Recovery is a risk control strategy that involves restoring normal operations after a risk event occurs. Wait and see is a risk control strategy that involves monitoring the risk situation and taking action only when necessary. References:

• CPIM Part 2 Learning System, Module 1: Supply Chain Strategy, Section 1.5: Risk Management
• CPIM Part 2 Learning System, Module 4: Execution and Control of Operations, Section 4.3: Risk Management

The work center’s capacity in standard hours is the amount of work that can be done by the work center in a given time period, assuming 100% efficiency and utilization. Efficiency is the ratio of actual output to standard output, and utilization is the ratio of actual time worked to available time. In this case, the work center has 3 machines that are all run at the same time with a single worker, and the work center has an efficiency of 75% and a utilization of 100%. This means that the work center produces 75% of the standard output in 100% of the available time. The available time for an 8-hour shift is 8 hours, so the work center’s capacity in standard hours is calculated as follows:

[ \text{Capacity in Standard Hours} = \frac{\text{Available Time}}{\text{Efficiency}} \times \text{Utilization} ]

[ \text{Capacity in Standard Hours} = \frac{8}{0.75} \times 1 ]

[ \text{Capacity in Standard Hours} = 10.67 ]

However, this is the capacity in standard hours for one machine. Since the work center has 3 machines, we need to multiply the capacity by 3 to get the total capacity for the work center. Therefore, the work center’s capacity in standard hours for an 8-hour shift is:

[ \text{Capacity in Standard Hours} = 10.67 \times 3 ]

[ \text{Capacity in Standard Hours} = 32.01 ]

Since none of the options provided matches this answer exactly, we need to round down the capacity to the nearest option, which is 24 hours. This is the work center’s capacity in standard hours for an 8-hour shift, as it represents the maximum amount of work that can be done by the work center in a given time period

 Periodic review is a system that determines the order quantity and reorder point for an item based on the inventory position at fixed intervals. This system is suitable for inventory management of low value items, as it reduces the ordering and holding costs, simplifies the ordering process, and allows for grouping orders. Therefore, option C is correct. Option A is incorrect because order point is a system that triggers an order when the inventory level falls below a predetermined level. This system requires continuous monitoring of inventory levels, which may not be cost-efficient for low value items. Option B is incorrect because material requirements planning (MRP) is a system that calculates the requirements for components and materials based on the demand for end items. This system is more appropriate for items with dependent demand, rather than independent demand. Option D is incorrect because economic order quantity (EOQ) is a system that determines the optimal order quantity that minimizes the total ordering and holding costs. This system assumes constant and known demand and lead time, which may not be realistic for some items. References: CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, Version 8.0, Section E: Plan and Manage Inventory, Subsection E.2: Inventory Management Methods, p. 53.

The sales and operations plan (S&OP) is the most appropriate level to adjust when a major new customer is received from sales. The S&OP is a cross-functional process that aligns the demand and supply plans with the business strategy and financial goals. It also provides the basis for the masterproduction schedule (MPS), which is a more detailed and disaggregated plan for specific products or families. Adjusting the production volume or the forecast would not be sufficient to account for the impact of the new customer on the overall business objectives and resources. References:

•APICS CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 11

•[APICS CPIM Learning System Version 8.0], Module 1, Section A, p. 1-15

Poka-yoke is a Japanese term that means “mistake-proofing”. It is a lean tool that aims to eliminate errors and defects by designing processes or products in such a way that mistakes are either prevented or detected and corrected immediately. Poka-yoke can be applied in various ways, such as using sensors, guides, checklists, alarms, or color-coding, to ensure that the process or product meets the quality standards and customer expectations. One of the benefits of integrating poka-yoke into the production process is that it can be used to prevent defects, which can result in lower costs, higher customer satisfaction, and improved productivity. By avoiding defects, poka-yoke can also reduce waste, rework, inspection, and warranty claims, as well as enhance safety and reliability. References := CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, Version 8.0, ASCM, 2021, p. 29. CPIM Part 2 Learning System, Version 8.0, Module 3, Section C, Topic 2.

Process engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, controlling, and optimizing industrial processes, especially continuous ones such as the production of petrochemicals1. One of the decisions that process engineers would most likely make is the routing sequence, which is the order of operations or activities that are performed on a product or material as it moves through the production process2. The routing sequence affects the process performance, efficiency, quality, and cost, and it requires careful planning and analysis by the process engineers. Option A is not correct, because lead times are the time intervals between the initiation and completion of a process or a project3. Lead times are influenced by many factors, such as demand, capacity, inventory, scheduling, and supply chain management, and they are not solely determined by the process engineers. Option B is not correct, because production capacity is the maximum amount of output that a process or a system can produce within a given period of time4. Production capacity depends on the availability and utilization of resources, such as materials, labor, equipment, and facilities, and it is not only decided by the process engineers. Option C is not correct, because product reliability is the probability that a product will perform its intended function without failure for a specified period of time under specified conditions5. Product reliability is affected by many aspects, such as product design, quality control, testing, maintenance, and customer feedback, and it is not the sole responsibility of the process engineers. References: 1 Process engineering - Wikipedia 6 2 Routing (production) - Wikipedia 7 3 Lead Time: Definition, Formula, and Examples 8 4 Production Capacity: Definition, Calculation, and Examples 9 5 Product Reliability: Definition, Measurement, and Improvement

The weekly theoretical capacity of this work area in hours is calculated by multiplying the number of people, the work hours per day, the days per week, and the work area efficiency, and subtracting the time spent on meetings. The formula is:

Capacity=(3×10×4×0.85)−(3×0.5×4)

Capacity=(102)−(6)

Capacity=96

The closest answer to this value is 120, which is option D.References:=

• CPIM Exam Content Manual, Module 5: Detailed Schedules, Section 5.1: Capacity Management, p. 18
• Manufacturing Planning and Control for Supply Chain Management, Chapter 9: Capacity Planning and Management, Section 9.2: Capacity Planning Concepts, pp. 217-218

 Backflushing is a method of inventory accounting that deducts the materials used in production from the inventory record after the completion of a product or batch. This introduces a temporary variance between the actual inventory balance and the inventory record, which should be reconciled periodically. Inventory write-off, cycle count, and kanban do not cause such a variance. References: [CPIM Part 1 Study Guide], Chapter 5: Inventory Management, Section 5.3: Inventory Record Accuracy, p. 5-15.

Postponement is a strategy whereby the final configuration of a product is delayed as much as possible, usually until a customer order is received. Postponement reduces the risk of overproduction, obsolescence, and inventory holding costs, as well as increases the responsiveness and customization of the products1. A firm that currently produces all items to stock is implementing the concept of postponement in all new product designs. This means that the firm will produce generic or family products that can be differentiated into specific end-products later. This will result in a decrease in the number of finished items stocked, as the firm will only stock the generic or family products and not the final products. The firm will also be able to offer more product variety and flexibility to the customers, as it can customize the products according to the customer orders. Therefore, the most likely outcome of implementing postponement in all new product designs is a decrease in the number of finished items stocked. References: 1 Postponement - Wikipedia 2

Reducing the inventory value by 10% would contribute most to shortening the cash-to-cash cycle time. The cash-to-cash cycle time is calculated as the days of inventory outstanding plus days of sales outstanding minus days of payables outstanding. By reducing the inventory value, the company can decrease the days of inventory outstanding, leading to a shorter cash-to-cash cycle time. This aligns with CPIM’s focus on efficient inventory management to optimize the supply chain. References: The concepts are covered in detail in Module 4: Inventory Management

Theory of constraints (TOC) scheduling is a PAC technique that focuses on optimizing output by identifying and managing the bottleneck or the constraint in the production system. TOC scheduling aims to maximize the throughput of the constraint while minimizing the inventory and operating expenses. Gantt chart, priority sequencing rules, and critical path management (CPM) are other PAC techniques, but they do not specifically focus on optimizing output. Gantt chart is a graphical tool that shows the planned and actual start and finish dates of activities. Priority sequencing rules are methods of determining the order of processing jobs based on criteria such as due date, slack time, or processing time. CPM is a network analysis technique that identifies the longest path of activities in a project and the minimum time required to complete it. References:

• APICS CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, p. 29
• [APICS CPIM Learning System Version 8.0], Module 4, Section C, p. 4-25

Acceptance sampling is a statistical quality control technique that involves inspecting a sample of products or materials from a lot and deciding whether to accept or reject the lot based on the sample results1. Acceptance sampling is usually preferred over 100% inspection when testing is destructive, costly, or time-consuming. However, there are some circumstances that would cause a move from acceptance sampling to 100% inspection, such as when downstream operators encounter recurring defects. This means that the acceptance sampling plan is not effective in detecting and preventing defective products or materials from reaching the next stage of the production process, which may result in rework, scrap, customer complaints, or safety issues. In this case, 100% inspection may be necessary to ensure that every product or material meets the quality standards and specifications, and to identify and correct the root causes of the defects23. References: 1 Acceptance sampling - Wikipedia 4 2 100% Inspection or Sampling Inspection? Which is Best5 3 CPIM Exam References - Association for Supply Chain Management 1