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SUPPLY-CHAIN-BASICS5 MIN READ

Run the Supplier Call That Targets Variability, Not Just Averages

Use supplier dialogue to separate average lead time from lead-time variability and planning consequences.

Rina R Supplier account manager The supplier review Rina says the quoted lead time is still 12 days, but your receipt history has lately ranged from 9 to 20. If you only debate the average, the variability that is inflating your inventory will remain invisible. 12 days quoted average 9–20 actual range biweekly expedites triggered Ask for the range, the cause, and the signal Averages help with contracts. Variability helps with planning. Strong buyers ask about both. Bad shortcut Demand a lower average lead time even when the real pain is volatility. The supplier call becomes operationally useful instead of…

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