Shields Carries a Part That Is Popular in the Manufacture

question 11

Essay

Shields carries a part that is popular in the manufacture of automatic sprayers. Demand for this part is 4,000 units per year; order costs amount to $30 per order, and holding costs total $1.50 per unit.
The company, which currently places four orders per year with its suppliers, is considering the implementation of an economic order quantity (EOQ) model to better manage its inventories. Preliminary EOQ calculations revealed an optimal order quantity of 400 units and total annual inventory costs of $600.
Required:
A. In comparison with its current policy, how much will Shields save by adopting the EOQ model?
B. Briefly explain the philosophical difference between the EOQ model and the just-in-time model. Which of the two models will likely result in lower holding costs for the firm? Why?

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Definitions:

Principle of Reciprocity

A social norm suggesting that a favor done for someone should be reciprocated by them in the future.

Pareto Principle

Also known as the 80/20 rule, it suggests that 80% of effects come from 20% of causes, applicable across various fields.

Equity Theory

A psychological theory which proposes that employees are motivated when they perceive their treatment in the workplace as fair, especially in how rewards are distributed.

Fairplay Rule

An ethical guideline ensuring fairness and honesty in transactions and interactions, often in sports or business.