Deliverable Length: 7501,000 words

While John Smith considers your recommendations of his companys service-level issues, explain the concept of inventory management as it relates to service operations management. Create an e-mail to him in reference to this topic.

Include the following in your answer:

• The role of inventory
• Inventory Strategies (including Vendor Managed, Consignment and Just-in-Time)
• Lead times and Service levels
• Economic and cost considerations
• Specifically address inventory management as it relates to service and Smith's company
• What are some of the biggest challenges around inventory management, including supplier management (including hardware, software, and other technology solutions).