What is flexible manufacturing? And how it can help Zara improve quality? Describe some of the methods that Zara might use to control inventory What strategies that Zara might implement in Its CHM to avoid the Bullwhip effect?

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Flexible manufacturing is a type of production system that makes use of computerized machinery and robotics to allow for rapid changes between product types. It allows for the production of high-quality goods in shorter time frames, allowing for increased efficiency and productivity. Flexible manufacturing can help Zara improve quality by enabling them to quickly and accurately create products specific to their customer’s needs, leading to higher satisfaction rates.

Zara may control inventory with just-in-time (JIT) methodologies which ensure that raw materials are delivered only when needed, reducing long term storage costs. They could also utilize advanced forecasting tools to determine potential demand trends and adjust their production capacities accordingly. Additionally, they could implement order batching or schedule deliveries from suppliers at predetermined intervals so as not to overstock inventory during times of low demand or understock during high sales periods. This would reduce surplus stock build up but still provide enough supply for customers when needed.

To avoid the bullwhip effect, Zara may consider implementing strategies such as collaborative planning between its retailers and vendors which ensures that everyone is aware of current consumer demands thus avoiding unnecessary ordering from distributors/retailers due to misguided forecasts or inaccurate assumptions on consumer behavior; they might also consider employing data sharing platforms like EDI (electronic data interchange), which encourages accurate information exchange between parties involved in the distribution process; finally, setting strict return policies will discourage distributors/customers from creating artificial spikes in order volumes through speculative buying behaviors which often lead to overstocking issues further down the supply chain.