CPT Inventory Management & Supply Chain 5

Question 1

A manufacturer experiences a sudden 40% spike in customer orders. Under which inventory replenishment approach would production most likely struggle to respond quickly?

Accepted Answer

Just-in-Time (JIT) with minimal buffer stock

Answer

JIT systems minimize buffer inventory, so a sudden demand surge cannot be absorbed from stock and requires rapid supply chain response that may not be achievable.

Question 2

In supply chain management, what is 'demand sensing' used for?

Accepted Answer

Using near-real-time data to improve short-term demand forecasts

Answer

Demand sensing uses point-of-sale data, shipment data, and analytics to detect actual demand patterns in near real-time, improving short-term forecast accuracy.

Question 3

A production technician is performing a cycle count and finds 47 units physically present but the system shows 52 units. What is the correct first action?

Accepted Answer

Recount the physical inventory to verify the discrepancy

Answer

Before making any system adjustment, a recount should verify the physical count is accurate, as counting errors are a common source of apparent discrepancies.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'postponement' as a supply chain strategy?

Accepted Answer

Deferring final product customization until closer to customer demand

Answer

Postponement delays product differentiation or customization to the latest possible point in the supply chain, reducing risk of holding wrong finished goods inventory.

Question 5

A company's supplier scorecard shows an on-time delivery rate of 72%. What is the most direct negative impact on the buyer's operations?

Accepted Answer

Higher required safety stock to buffer against late deliveries

Answer

Poor on-time delivery forces the buyer to hold additional safety stock to maintain production continuity despite unreliable supply, increasing inventory carrying costs.

(CPT) Certified Production Technician Practice Test

(CPT) Certified Production Technician Practice Test

CPT Inventory Management & Supply Chain 5