Who Owns Inventory? Stop the Blame Game

People frequently ask: Who owns inventory?

They see inventory created as the result of actions or lack of execution by different functions of the company. They wonder whether accountability for inventory has been established. In asking who owns inventory, people frequently neglect to consider inventory as a strategic asset. When inventory is considered a strategic asset, inventory tactics are developed that address:

• Seasonality of demand
• The advantages of building product prior to a new product launch
• The need for safety stock as a hedge against demand and supply uncertainties.