Exam code:1BS0
Interpretation of bar gate stock graphs
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A Bar Gate Stock Control diagram illustrates the flow of stock (inventory) into and out of a business over time
Example Bar Gate Stock Graph

Diagram analysis
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The maximum stock level is the maximum amount of stock a business is able to hold in normal circumstances (1600)
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The reorder level is the level at which a business places a new order with its supplier (800)
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The minimum stock level is also known as the buffer stock level and is the lowest level to which a business is willing to allow stock levels to fall (400)
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The lead time is the length of time from the point of stock being ordered from the supplier to it being delivered (1 week)
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The stock level line shows how stock levels change over the given time period
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As stock is used up, a downwards slope is plotted
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When an order is delivered by a supplier, the stock level line shoots upwards
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Worked Example
The diagram below shows stock movements of kitchen shelving units sold by TamFix Ltd.

Identify the following points:
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the minimum stock level
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the re-order level
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the re-order quantity
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the lead time for kitchen shelving units
(4)
Step 1: Identify the minimum stock level
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The minimum stock level is identified by the bottom-most dotted line. In this case it shows that the minimum stock level is 200 units (1)
Step 2: Identify the reorder level
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The reorder level is clearly identified on the diagram. In this case, it shows that the reorder level is 500 units (1)
Step 3: Identify the reorder quantity
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The reorder quantity is the difference between the maximum stock level (shown by the topmost dotted line) and the minimum stock level
(1)
Step 4: Identify the lead time for kitchen shelving units
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The lead time is the difference in time between an order for stock being placed and its delivery
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In this case, assuming a five-day working week, the lead time for shelving units is two days (1)
Efficient procurement of raw materials
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Efficient procurement of raw materials is crucial for ensuring the success of any manufacturing process
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There are several factors that can influence the efficiency of raw material procurement
Important factors in procurement

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Businesses need to carefully consider these factors when sourcing raw materials to ensure that they can efficiently produce high-quality products at a reasonable cost
Factors that influence the sourcing of raw materials
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Factor |
Explanation |
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Quality |
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Delivery |
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Availability |
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Costs |
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Trust |
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Just in time stock management
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Just in Time (JIT) stock management is a process in which raw materials are not stored onsite but ordered as required and delivered by suppliers ‘just in time’ to be used
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Careful coordination is required ensure that raw materials and components are delivered by suppliers at the moment that they are to be used
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