A firm has identified groups of customers based on specific characteristics the customers desire from products and services the firm can provide. Characteristics include lead times, pricing tiers, and service levels. The firm is engaged in which of the following activities?

The purchasing manager of a company wants to minimize stock-outs as well as obsolete inventory. Which of the following tools needs to be implemented?

Which of the following distribution approaches for a low-volume, high-variety product line typically will result in the highest level of customer service and the lowest total distribution costs?

What action has typically been taken over the last decade or so by members of supply chains todecrease variability in supply and demand?

A manufacturer has direct relationships with its tier 1 suppliers. Which of the following supplier capabilities is a benefit to the manufacturer establishing a direct relationship with lower-tier suppliers?