Which inventory management strategy aims to reduce waste and improve response times?

The Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory management strategy is focused on minimizing waste and enhancing efficiency in the supply chain. JIT operates under the principle of receiving goods only as they are needed in the production process, thereby reducing inventory holding costs and minimizing excess stock. This approach means that materials and products are delivered right at the moment they are needed, which improves response times and helps to streamline operations.

By implementing JIT, companies aim to match supply closely with demand, which not only reduces the amount of unsold inventory but also decreases the potential for obsolescence. This focus on efficiency can lead to significant cost savings and enhance overall operational effectiveness, which is a central goal of modern inventory management practices.

In contrast, other strategies such as FIFO and LIFO focus more on the order of inventory usage rather than optimizing the timing of inventory flow. Batch processing also does not prioritize waste reduction in the same direct manner as JIT, as it generally involves producing goods in larger groups rather than minimizing stock on hand.