Modern Management: concepts and skills, 14/e

Challenge Case Summary

It seems apparent from the facts in the introductory case that Wal-Mart’s managers must focus heavily on planning in order for the company’s low-price strategy to be successful. Such a process should help determine issues such as what inventory must be purchased to meet demand without waste, when orders should be placed, where merchandise should be stored to promptly meet demand, and how employees can efficiently move inventory onto the shelves as customers buy the items. This process should also focus on how to maintain the quality of Wal-Mart’s service.

Because of the many related benefits of planning, Wal-Mart’s managers should make certain that the planning process is thorough and comprehensive, one particularly notable ...