Distribution Problem, Essay Example

Since the problem is quite abrupt and fixing it might need 10 minutes to a full day of maintenance check and operation, it is an important matter to have the current number of individuals [employees] to be redirected according to their expertise so that the current deliveries would continue, while some would stay for the fixing of the scanner. Among the most important matters to give attention to is the scanning of the cartons that are going out for delivery. Since the scanner is not available, it is important to have a manual alternative to the recording system. The ones who are on delivery duty ought to be given a manually-written list of the deliveries, and it s important that each assigned worker be briefed on how to put in the records to make sure the inventory point remains untainted even without the scanner.

For the checking and maintenance of the scanner, it is vital that at least two to three persons be left in the station to give attention to the said problem. Upon the change of shifts at 4:30 pm, a turnover of the task shall be imposed if the problem has not solved yet. This approach will allow the delivery operation to continue while the maintenance task also commences. The efficiency of manually noting the deliveries for accurate inventory however relies on the capacity of the employees to handle the deliveries to be more accurate in their post.

When the home office calls, it is important to give them a brief about the alternative operation approach that has been prepared for. During this time, it is important to assure the home office that everything is under control and that the deliveries [especially] would continue even amidst the emergence of the said problematic situation. Given the circumstances, it is expected that regular operations with the use of the scanner could return to usual during the next day. With the effective turnover of operations between the employees on duty during this day, the deliveries and maintenance tasks could be completed accordingly.

Reference

McGinnis M. A. (1992). Military Logistics: Insights for Business Logistics, International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management Vol 22.