Daniel Demissie Final

ST MARY’S UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FACTORS INFLUENCING

INVENTORY CONTROL; THE CASE OF POPULATION
SERVICES INTERNATIONAL ETHIOPIA.
BY
DANIEL DEMISSIE
JANUARY, 2015
ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FACTORS INFLUENCING
INVENTORY CONTROL; THE CASE OF POPULATION
SERVICES INTERNATIONAL ETHIOPIA.
BY
DANIEL DEMISSIE
A THESIS SUBMITTED TO ST.MARY’S UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES, IN PARTIAL

FULFILEMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
DEGREE OF MASTERS OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
JANUARY, 2014
ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
2
ST MARY’S UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES
FACULTY OF BUSINESS
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FACTORS INFLUENCING INVENTORY

CONTROL; THE CASE OF POPULATION SERVICES
INTERNATIONAL ETHIOPIA
BY: DANIEL DEMISSIE
APPROVED BY BOARD OF EXAMINERS
Dean, Graduate studies Signature and Date
Advisor Signature and Date
External Examiner Signature and Date
Internal Examiner Signature and Date
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents..................................................................................................................... Pages
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS............................................................................................................... i
LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVATIONS......................................................................... ii
LIST OF TABLES......................................................................................................................... iii
LIST OF FIGURES....................................................................................................................... iii
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................................iv
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION............................................................................................. 1
1.1 Back ground of the Study....................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Statement of the Problem....................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Research Questions.................................................................................................................3
1.4 Objectives of the study........................................................................................................... 3
1.4.1 General objective of the study......................................................................................... 3
1.4.2. Specific objectives of the study......................................................................................4
1.5 Significance of the Study........................................................................................................4
1.6 Delimitation............................................................................................................................ 4
1.7 Organization of the Study.......................................................................................................5
CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE........................................................ 6
2.1 Definition of Inventory........................................................................................................... 6

2.2 Inventory Management........................................................................................................... 6
2.3 Inventory Control....................................................................................................................7
2.4 Inventory Model: The Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) Model........................................... 9
2.5 Purchasing and Inventory Performance.................................................................................. 9
2.5.1 Bureaucratic Procurement Procedures...........................................................................10
2.6 Inventory Cost...................................................................................................................... 11
2.7 Internal Control.....................................................................................................................12
2.8 Knowledge and Skills Possessed the Staff........................................................................... 13
2.9 Stock Record Practice...........................................................................................................14
2.10 Conceptual Framework.......................................................................................................16
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHDOLOGY................................................................. 17
3.1 Research Design................................................................................................................... 17

3.2 Population and Sampling Techniques...................................................................................17
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3.2.1 Population of the Study.................................................................................................. 17
3.2.2 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques..........................................................................17
3.3 Sources of Data and Data Collection Tools......................................................................... 18
3.4 Data Collection Procedures.................................................................................................. 19
3.5 Data Processing and Analysis...............................................................................................19
3.6 Validity and Reliability of Instruments................................................................................ 19
3.7 Ethical Considerations.......................................................................................................... 20
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATIONS...........................................21
4.1 Response Rate...................................................................................................................... 21

4.2 Findings of Demographic Characteristics of Respondents....................................................22
4.3 Findings of Bureaucratic Procurement Procedure................................................................. 24
4.4 Findings of Inventory Carrying Cost.................................................................................... 26
4.5 Findings of Inventory Audit Practices.................................................................................. 30
4.6 Findings of Stock Record Practice....................................................................................... 33
4.7 Findings of Staff Skill and Experience................................................................................. 37
CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDIATIONS................ 41
5.1 Summary of the Major Findings.......................................................................................... 41

5.2 Conclusions.......................................................................................................................... 43
5.4 Recommendations.................................................................................................................44
5.5 Areas of Further Research.................................................................................................... 45
References..................................................................................................................................... 46
Appendix....................................................................................................................................... 48
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
First I want to thank the God almighty for the grace bestowed unto me throughout my
studies. My sincere thanks go to the employees of Population Services International
Ethiopia, for providing me with the necessary information during my research.
I feel a deep sense of gratitude to my advisor Assistant professor Goitom Abraham, whose
guidance, time and advice has contributed to the development of this research report. I
only pray that “May the blessings of God follow you.”
I highly acknowledge my family at large for the endless support they have given me
throughout my studies. My appreciation also goes to my dear friends, Alemayehu
Tegegne, Danile Tsegaye, Yidnekachew Demissie, Lishan Amare and Habtamu Negash;
thanks for your encouragement and your contribution to my positive thinking throughout.
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LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVATIONS
EOQ Economic Order Quantity
GIA Global International Audit
HR Human Resource
ISA International Standard of Auditing
JIT Just in Time
SCD Supply Chain & Distribution
SPSS Statistical Package for Social Sciences
PSI/Et Population Services International Ethiopia
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1 Sample size determination of the study..............................................................18

Table 4.1 Rate of response.................................................................................................. 21
Table 4.2 Demographic characteristics of respondents...................................................... 22
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1 what costs go into inventory carrying costs?.................................................. 11

Figure 2.2 Conceptual framework.....................................................................................16
Figure 4.1 Experienced bureaucratic procurement difficulty............................................24
Figure 4.2 Stock out frequency......................................................................................... 25
Figure 4.3 Long bureaucratic procurement procedure affects inventory control..............26
Figure 4.4 Determination of inventory order point...........................................................27
Figure 4.5 Insurance to inventory items............................................................................27

Figure 4.6 Availability of expired, damaged and obsolescence items.............................. 28
Figure 4.7 Inventory over stock.........................................................................................29
Figure 4.8 Respondents view on high carrying cost affects inventory control..................29
Figure 4.9 Stock audit systems..........................................................................................30
Figure 4.10 Stock taking frequencies............................................................................... 31
Figure 4.11 Frequency of review inventory records and reports.......................................32

Figure 4.12 Experienced discrepancies between actual and physical stock balance........ 32
Figure 4.13 Stock audit practice affects inventory control............................................... 33
Figure 4.14 Maintaining inventory record.........................................................................34
Figure 4.15 Nature of inventory record system................................................................ 35

Figure 4.16 Level of satisfaction with the current inventory record system.................... 35
Figure 4.17 Frequency of inventory record update...........................................................36
Figure 4.18 Respondents view on poor stock record practice affects inventory...............37
Figure 2.19 Service year in inventory management......................................................... 38
Figure 2.20 Pre/Post employment training on inventory control......................................39
Figure 4.21 Level of training in inventory control............................................................39
Figure 4.22 Staff skill and experience affects inventory control.......................................40
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ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to assess the factors influencing inventory control in
Population Services International Ethiopia. The various factor influencing inventory
control were broken into bureaucratic procurement procedure, carrying cost ,stock audit
practice ,stock record practice and staff skill & experience. The particular objective that
were analyzed include; evaluation of the effects of procurement procedure to the
effectiveness of inventory control, examination of the effect of high inventory carrying
cost to the effectiveness of inventory control, determination of the effects of stock audit
practices to the effectiveness of Inventory control, analysis of the effects of poor stock
record practice to effectiveness of inventory control, and examination of the effects of staff
skill & experience to the effectiveness of inventory control. The research adopted
descriptive study design. A stratified random sampling technique was applied to the study.
The researcher used a sample size of 30% of the target population to act as the sample
size. The researcher used questionnaire to collect data for the research. The questionnaire
contained open and closed ended questions and five point Likert scale questions and
covered areas of inventory control to come up with good raw data for the research. The
collected data were quantitatively analyzed using statistical methods such as SPSS which
was commanded to produce frequency tables, graphs and pie charts for effective
interpretation. The key findings from the study revealed that: delays in procurement of
goods, frequent stock-outs and no use of mathematical model were some of the effects of
long bureaucratic procurement procedure. According to the study, some products were
over stocked, expired, damage and obsolete that eventually increase carrying cost were
some of the effects in inventory control. The study revealed that lack of specific time or
date for stock taking exercise and discrepancies between actual and physical stock
balances were some of the effects of stock audit practice. The study also revealed that
unavailability of fully computerized system all over the organization, lack of specific time
or date for posting stock records, lack of adequately trained staff hinders effective
performance of the organization. The researcher recommends that cumbersome rules and
reliance on rigid rules and policies that slow down procurement process should be
avoided; current inventory control practices and procedures need to be reviewed and
redesigned. The management should stay up-to-date on inventory carrying cost. Only
qualified and adequately trained personnel should be involved in stock control.
Key words: Assessment, effectiveness, inventory, inventory control, bureaucracy, carrying

cost, stock audit, stock record and staff skill.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Back ground of the Study
The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) define inventory
management as the branch of business management concerned with planning and
controlling inventories (Toomey, 2000). Lyson and Gillignham (2003) argue that
inventory management involves controlling of stock or inventory levels with the physical
distribution function to balance the need for minimizing stock holding and handling costs.
Consistently, inventory management is aimed at ensuring that the company is supplied
with the right inventories (quantities of inventory) at the right time, in the right places and
ensuring optimization of the benefits of holding inventory in the organizations. Inventories
are the stock of products a company holds to further its production and sales (Pandy, 2005)
they appear in the form of raw materials, work in progress, finished products and supplies
maintained by firms to smoothly conduct their business
The problem of inventory has continued to receive much attention in most businesses.
Inventory levels of raw materials, semi-finished and finished goods need to be effectively
managed to control the cost of inventory (Kotler, 2002). It is common to find the balance
sheet of an average company having inventory running to 60% of its current assets as
capital tied down (Pandey, 2005). It is for this reason that the management of Population
Services International Ethiopia (PSI/Et) through its warehouse manual (2010) have
instituted procedures and techniques for the purpose of proper inventory control.
According to Buffa and Salin (1987), there are several reasons for keeping inventory. Too
much stock could result in funds being tied down, increase in holding cost, deterioration of
materials, obsolescence and theft. On the other hand, shortage of materials can lead to
interruption of products for sales; poor customer relations and underutilized machines and
equipments.
According to Coyle, Bardi, & Langley (2003), effective inventory flow management in
supply chains is one of the key factors for success. The challenge in managing inventory is
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to balance the supply of inventory with demand. A company would ideally want to have
enough inventories to satisfy the demands of its customers- no lost sales due to inventory
stock-outs. On the other hand, the company does not want to have too much inventory
staying on hand because of the cost of carrying inventory. Enough but not too much is the
ultimate objective.
Based on the author’s observation and discussion with Supply Chain and Distribution
senior officials; PSI/Et reveals Operational Constraints in areas of inventory
control/management, information management, and aspects which include high inventory
related cost, overstock, under stock, poor documentation, uncertainty of customer
demands, Long supplier Leads times, long bureaucratic procurement procedure, and
inaccurate procurement needs estimation. Therefore, the mere fact that ineffective
inventory control affects virtually the organizational objectives necessitates this type of
research work. This paper therefore examines the factors that influence inventory
control/management practice of the organization.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Inventory comprises the most significant part of current assets in Population Services
International Ethiopia. Inventory accounts almost 60% of its current assent in the balance
sheet of PSI/Et. Therefore, due to the relative largeness of inventories maintained by the
organization, a considerable sum of an organization’s fund is being committed to them. It
thus becomes absolutely imperative to manage inventories effectively so as to avoid
unnecessary cost and ensure high level of customer service. According to annual stock
taking conducted on December 31st, 2013 in the organization, the stock taking report
revealed some items are over stocked, leading to high inventory carrying cost. Contrary to
over stocking, the annual report also reveals that some critical items were out of stock,
leading to hasty buying because of low stock levels. The report claimed that the problem
might have been attributed to long bureaucratic procedure and poor internal stock audit
practice. The report also revealed the cases of inaccurate recording or poor entering of
some data information, which was a good indication of poor inventory control.
Auditors from Global International Auditing (GIA) of Population Services International,

on December 31st, 2013 highlighted various observations in the organization’s inventory
management practice. According to the GIA report over stock and stock out of some
crucial items were identified. There was some discrepancy between the information
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provided by stock card and the actual physical stock balance. Most of the goods received
and issued during the month of December, 2013 had not been posted properly in bin card.
Invariably, the organization must neither keep excess inventories to avoid an unnecessary
inventory carrying cost and unnecessary tying down of funds as well as loss in fund due to
pilferage, spoilage and obsolescence nor maintain too low inventories so as to meet users
demand as at when needed. Therefore, the mere fact that ineffective inventory control
affects virtually the organizational objectives necessitates this type of research work.
1.3 Research Questions
This Study focused on seeking answer to the following research questions to address the
stated problem:
i) What is the effect of long bureaucratic procurement procedure to the effectiveness of

inventory control?
ii) What is the effect of stock audit practice to the effectiveness of inventory control?
iii) What is the effect of high inventory carrying cost to the effectiveness of inventory
control?
iv) What is the effect of poor stock record practice to the effectiveness of inventory
control?
v) What is the effect of staff skill to the effectiveness of inventory control?
1.4 Objectives of the study
The study has general and specific objectives.
1.4.1 General objective of the study
Considering the strategic importance of inventory to the effective operations of an

organization in view of the problem highlighted above, the general objective of this study
is to assess the factors influencing the effectiveness of inventory control at PSI/Et.
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1.4.2. Specific objectives of the study
Specifically, the objectives of the study are:
i) To evaluate the effects of procurement procedure to the effectiveness of inventory

control;
ii) To examine the effect of high inventory carrying cost to the effectiveness of
inventory control;
iii) To determine the effects of stock audit practices to the effectiveness of Inventory
control;
iv) To analyze the effects of poor stock record practices to effectiveness of inventory
control; and
v) To examine the effects of staff skill to the effectiveness of inventory control.
1.5 Significance of the Study
Inventories represent a sizeable investment and a potential source of waste that needs to be
reviewed regularly and closely reviewed e.g. through perpetual stock taking, periodic
reviews also as well as internal and external auditing. Thus an effective inventory control
is paramount to ensuring that money is utilized appropriately.
The research findings would hopefully add to the body of knowledge in the area of
inventory control for common user items which would help researchers & scholars and be
a basis for reference. It will assist the management in ensuring effective inventory control
at all times as it will aid those entrusted with decision making to formulate strategies of
combating the persistent problem of inventory control in the organization. Lastly for the
Researcher, the study not only fulfills the partial requirement for the award of the Degree
of Masters of Business Administration but also serve as a basis for further research in the
field of inventory control.
1.6 Delimitation
Due to the limitation of time, it is impossible for the author to make a longitudinal study,
in which the implementation result of the proposed inventory control system can be
observed and verified. And this harms the credibility of the study to some extent.
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The research is targeted to study inventory control practice of population Services
International Ethiopia. PSI/Et with the main actors in inventory management and other
treated department is estimated to 128 employees (population size), not reaching out into
the other actors in the supply chain network. In other words, the interaction among the
actors in the network in terms of inventory control is excluded. And from the supply chain
management perspective, the contribution of the study is reduced.
1.7 Organization of the Study
Chapter 1: The first chapter highlights the general overview of the study including the
background of the study, statement of the problem, research questions, objectives of the
study, and significance of the study, along with conceptual framework of the study. The
chapter ends with the delimitation/scope of the study.
Chapter 2: This chapter deals with the different theories and models that are related to the
subject of this thesis and can be used for the analysis.
Chapter 3: In this chapter, the author presents the research design method applied to this
thesis. Furthermore it deals with sources of data and data collection tools. Then the
research presents population and sampling techniques, sources of data and data collection
tools, data collection procedures, data processing and analysis and validity and reliability
of instruments. The chapter ends with the ethical considerations of the study.
Chapter 4: In this chapter, the author presents the data analysis and interpretations. It gives
empirical findings and discussions about factors that influence inventory control of the
organization to be studied and the major issues that need to be addressed in their inventory
control.
Chapter 5: In chapter five, the author presents the summary of the major finding,
conclusions, recommendations and areas of further research.
The last part lists the bibliography and appendices used in the thesis.
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CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
This chapter explores the different theories and models that are related to the subject of
this thesis and can be used for the analysis.
2.1 Definition of Inventory
Lysons and Gillingham (2003) defined Inventory as an American accounting term for the
value or quantity of raw materials, components, assemblies, consumables, work-in
progress and finished stock that are kept or stored for use as need arises.
(Coyle et al., 2003) defines Inventory as raw materials, work-in-progress, finished goods
and supplies required for creation of a company’s goods and services. The number of units
and/or value of the stock of goods a company hold.
Rick (1998) defines Inventory as piles of money on the shelf and profit for the company or
organization. Pandey (2005) added that inventories are classified as current assets because
typically they will be sold within the year or during a firm’s normal operating cycle if it
should be longer than a year for retailing firms, inventories are often the largest and most
valuable current assets.
The relevance of these theories to the study is that Inventory is to be seen as the largest
investment in assets and represents one of the primary sources of revenue generation and
subsequent earnings for an organization, therefore it has to be efficiently and effectively
managed to reduce cost and increase profitability in the organization.
2.2 Inventory Management
(Coyle et al., 2003) define Inventory management as the management of materials in

motion and at rest. The following activities all fall within the scope of inventory
management (Wikipedia, 2014) the fine lines between replenishment lead time, carrying
costs of inventory, asset management, inventory forecasting, inventory valuation, future
inventory price forecasting, physical inventory, available physical space for inventory,
quality management, replenishment, returns and defective goods, and demand forecasting.
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Balancing these competing requirements leads to optimal inventory levels, which is an on
going process as the business needs shift and react to the wider environment.
Inventory management basically serves two main goals (Reid & Sanders, 2007). First of
all good inventory management is responsible for the availability of goods. It is important
for running operations that the required materials are present in the right quantities, quality
and at the right time in order to deliver a specific level of service. The second goal is to
achieve this service level against optimal costs.
2.3 Inventory Control
Eni (2001) defines inventory control as the problems of verifying the quantity, the value
and the balance of the entire range of materials held in stock, so that it would be easy and
possible to give the exact quantities of materials in the store at any given time. It helps the
store-keeper (or the inventory controller, as the case may be) to tell how much was ordered
(requested for), how many have been used, what is remaining and when to place the next
order so that the enterprises would not lack materials to work with at any point in time.
Similarly, Sharma (2004), views inventory control as the means by which materials of the
correct quantity and quality is made available as at when required with due regard to
economy in terms of storage and costs (both ordering and working capital). He also opines
that inventory control is the systematic ways of locating; storing and recording of goods in
such a way that desired degree of service can be made to the operation shops at minimum
ultimate cost.
Kumar & Suresh (2008) argue that effective control on inventory is a must for smooth and
efficient running of the production cycle with least interruptions. They proceed with their
argument that this is warranted by varying intervals between receiving the purchased parts
and transforming them into final products. They further argue that inventory control would
ensure adequate supply of products to customers and avoid shortages and ensure timely
action for replenishment. Inventory control systems may ensures smooth production &
hence no stock-out.
Inventory control aims at providing the following information to the business

organizations for effective decision making (Sharma, 2004): Information on the accuracy
of stock records and physical quantities, evidence in support of the value of stock shown in
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the balance sheet & profit and loss statement, reveal any weakness in the method of
inventory keeping, disclose any loss, fraud, or theft in the process of material handling,
and identifying deterioration, obsolescence, slow movement and redundancy in the stocks
on hand.
Martand (2009) have identified the objectives of inventory control to include: to minimize
the costs involved in purchasing, stocking and issuing of the supplies, to reduce the
frequencies of ordering for stock items, to decrease pilferage, waste and over stocking, to
minimize the investment and fluctuations in Inventories while at the same time providing
prompt order filling services for customers, to integrate and deploy within the logistical
system the minimum amount of inventory consistent with desired delivery capability and
total cost expenditure, to ensure adequate supply of products to customer and avoid
shortages as far as possible, to provide a scientific base for both short term & long term
planning of materials, and to provide a reserve stocks for variations in lead of delivery of
materials.
Good inventory control system offers the following benefits (Clodfelter, 2003):
1. The proper relations ship between sales and inventory can better be well
maintained. Without inventory control procedures in place the store department can
became overstocked or under stocked.
2. Inventory control systems provide a business with information needed to take
markdowns by identifying slow -selling merchandise. Discovering such items
early in the season will allow a business to reduce prices or make a change in
marketing strategy before consumer demand completely disappears.
3. Merchandise control systems allow buyers to identify best sellers early enough in
the season so that reorders can be placed to increase total sales for the store
department.
4. Merchandise shortages and shrinkage, can be identified using inventory control
systems. Excessive shrinkage will indicate that more effective merchandising
controls need to be implemented to reduce employee theft or shoplifting.
According to Arora (2000), the factors to be considered in inventory control include;

procurement costs, inventory carrying costs, cost of spoilage and obsolescence, cost of
running-out of stock and set-up cost. A good inventory control system minimize the
possibility of delays in production that are caused by lack of materials, permits a company
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to exercise economics in purchasing, essential for an efficient accounting system is
deterrent to people who might steal materials from factory, expedite the production of
financial statement, allows for possible increase in output, creates buffer between input
and output, insures against scarcity of materials in the market and avoid inventory build-up
(Carter, 2002).
Poor inventory control has the following symptoms: high rate of order cancellations,
excessive machine downtime due to material shortage, large scale inventories written
down because of price decline, distress sales, widely varying rate of inventory losses, large
writing down at the time of physical inventory taking, continuous growing inventory
qualities, liabilities to meet delivery schedules and even production rate (Menon, 2006).
2.4 Inventory Model: The Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) Model
Piasecki (2001) presents an inventory model for calculating optimal order quantity that
used the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) method. He points out that many companies are
not using the EOQ method due to poor results received resulted from inaccurate data input.
He clarifies that many errors resulted in the calculation of EOQ in the computer software
package are due to the failure of the users in understanding how the data inputs and system
setup that control the output. He says that EOQ is an accounting formula that determines
the point at which the combination of order costs and inventory cost are the least. He
highlights that the EOQ method would not conflict with the Just in Time (JIT) concept. In
fact, he explains that JIT is actually a quality initiative to eliminate wasted steps, wasted
material, wasted labor and other costs; EOQ method is used to determine which
components would fit into the JIT model and what level is economically advantageous for
the operation
2.5 Purchasing and Inventory Performance
According to Susan & Michael (2000), the primary purchasing objectives are to buy
materials at the lowest responsive and responsible cost and to ensure adherence to
purchasing terms and conditions. Maintaining continuity of supply and consistency of
quality are also important objectives that go hand in hand with searching for new products
and vendors and developing alternative supply sources. Meeting these purchasing
objectives, as a means to improve inventory performance and maintenance productivity,
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requires teamwork among inventory, purchasing, and maintenance departments.
According to Susan & Michael (2000), improving inventory performance can be
accomplished by the following: reducing purchase cycle time, including lead time,
developing commodity expertise/specialization, increasing the use of different purchase
order types, consolidating purchases, increasing the use of volume discounts, tightening
control of purchase order terms and conditions, qualifying vendors, monitoring vendor
performance, searching for new products and vendors, developing supplier relationships,
and working with vendors to reduce the incidence of past-due deliveries.
Other approaches to improving inventory performance require using different procurement

methods, depending on such factors as the types of material or services purchased and
whether the purchase is small bid, one time, or repetitive.
2.5.1 Bureaucratic Procurement Procedures
Procurement encompasses the whole process of acquiring property and/or services. It

begins when an agency has identified a need and decided on its procurement requirement.
Procurement continues through the processes of risk assessment, seeking and evaluating
alternative solutions, contract award, delivery of and payment for the property and/or
services and, where relevant, the ongoing management of a contract and consideration of
options related to the contract. Procurement also extends to the ultimate disposal of
property at the end of its useful life (Waters, 2004).
As organizations become large and more complex, the authoritarian- paternalistic patter
gave way to increased functional specialization with many layers of middle and lower
management for coordinating organization effort (Kenneth & Kenneth, 2005). The
advantages of bureaucracy are many folds; apart from consistent employee’s behavior, it
eliminates overlapping or conflicting jobs or duties and behavior of the system is
predicable (Osborne and Plastrik, 1997). Despite the above advantages, bureaucratic
organization has some significant negative and side effect. Too much red tapes and paper
work not only lead to unpleasant experiences but also to inefficient operations (Osborne &
Plastrik, 1997). Because employees are treated impersonality and they are expected to rely
on rules and policies, they are unwilling to experience individual judgment and they avoid
risks.
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2.6 Inventory Cost
The basic object of inventory management is to maximize customer service through

maintaining appropriate amount of inventory with minimum possible cost. There are costs
associated with holding all inventories, and the costs go beyond the expenditure of the
inventory investment, inventory carrying costs form an interesting concept, representing
both accounting costs and economic costs (Goldsby, & Martichenko, 2005). Accounting
costs are explicit and call for a cash payment. Economic costs are implicit, not necessarily
involving an outlay but rather an opportunity cost.
The components of inventory carrying costs are illustrated below in Figure 2.1
Inventory Investment
Capital
Insurance
Cost
Taxes
Inventory
Service cost Obsolescence
Damage
Inventory
Carrying
Cost Pilferage
Inventory
Risk Cost
Reallocation Cost
Plant Warehouse
Storage Public Warehouse

space Cost
Rent/Lease Warehouse
Company owned
F igure 2.1 what costs go into inventory carrying costs ?

Source: (Goldsby, & Martichenko, 2005)
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Goldsby & Martichenko (2005) explain the cost components in Figure 2.1 above
comprehensively as following: The capital cost is the single biggest factor of inventory
carrying cost. It is opportunity cost; to clarify its sense, just think about what else could be
done with the amount of capital if it were not tied up in inventory. Inventory is viewed as
an asset on the balance sheet; hence, many state governments impose property tax rates on
inventory.
Insurance premiums are paid to provide coverage against loss or damage to inventory.
Obsolescence reflects the real possibility that inventory value may decline in the course of
being kept. Storage costs in this figure just refer to variable costs of storage. Fixed
warehousing costs, which do not change with the volume of inventory maintained are not
included in inventory carrying costs but are calculated as warehousing costs in a total
logistics cost
2.7 Internal Control
Horngren & Harrison (1992) define internal controls as the organization plan and all
related measures adopted by an entity to safeguard assets ensure accurate and reliable
accounting records promote operational efficiency and encourage adherence to company
policies. Internal controls include administrative controls and accounting controls.
Administrative controls include the plan of organization methods and the procedures that
help managers achieve operational efficiency and adherence to company policies.
Accounting controls include the methods and procedures that safeguard assets, authorize
transactions and ensure the accuracy of the financial records. Internal controls are policies
and procedures established in an organization to authorize transactions in order to ensure
the accuracy of the financial records and to provide assurance that organizational
objectives will be achieved.
Internal controls include all policies and procedures adopted by management of an entity
to assist in achieving their objectives as far as practicable. The controls are aimed at aiding
management in carrying on business in an orderly and efficient manner and showing
transparency and accountability of any policies in such as stock controls through
professional ethics and following routine practices.
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Internal control over inventory is important to any business because inventory is the life
blood of a merchandiser. Horngren & Harrison (1992) argue that successful companies
take great care to protect their inventory.
According to Horngren & Harrison (1992), Elements of good internal control over
inventory include: physically counting inventory at least once each year no matter which
system is used, maintaining efficiency purchasing, receiving and shipping procedures,
storing inventory to protect it against theft damage and decay, limiting access to inventory
to personnel who do not have access to the accounting records, keeping perpetual
inventory records for high unit cost merchandise, purchasing inventory in economic
quantities, keeping enough inventories on hand to prevent shortage situations, and not
keeping too large stock pilled, thus to avoid capital tied up.
2.8 Knowledge and Skills Possessed the Staff
According to Susan & Michael (2000), people in warehouse (that is, stores) are
responsible for the distribution of inventory materials to all storage or using locations.
They are also responsible for the physical security and safekeeping of material at all stores
locations and for all storekeeping activities, including material receiving, put-away, and
material picking and shipping. Other responsibilities include: maintaining accurate
inventory records, managing the physical layout of storehouses, including bin location
assignments, determining the physical movement and distribution of material throughout
the organization, receiving and storing material; issuing stock material in response to a
material request from customers, conducting cycle counts, annual physicals, or both,
reconciling discrepancies between cycle count and annual physical inventory, developing
and operating truck and route schedules for distribution of material, and working with
purchasing departments to resolve vendor-related problems with timing, quality, quantity,
and delivery.
According to PSI/Et warehouse manual (2010), warehouse officers are the direct
custodians of PSI/Et stores and assist in achievement of economy in expenditure on
supplies by the application of proper stores accounting, prevention and detection of losses,
wastage or misuse of stores and disposing of stores in the most advantageous manner to
the organization. The manual therefore recommends that in order to keep costs to the
13
minimum, PSI/Et should ensure that warehouse staff are properly trained, supervised and
allocated for the work they are required to perform.
Lyson and Gillingham (2003) define training as a planned process to modify attitudes,
knowledge or skill behavior through learning experience to achieve effective performance
in an activity or range of activities. Its purpose in the work situation is to develop the
abilities of the individual and to satisfy the current and future human resource needs of the
organization. The author further says that employees may be trained internally on the job
or externally in a college offering supply chain management courses.
Baily and Farmer (1982) argue that for the supplies function to achieve a superior supply
performance, it is necessary to recruit, train and develop personnel with the capacity and
motivation to do better work. Qualified staff that is competent and skilled will help the
organization to achieve its goals and objectives by being efficient and effective when
carrying out their various functions. For an organization to succeed, qualification is
therefore a pre-requisite and must be matched with job requirement.
2.9 Stock Record Practice
Inventory accuracy defines how well the inventory records, specifically the quantities on
hand, match the actual quantities in the storeroom. Accurate records are a prerequisite to
effective inventory management. Susan & Michael (2000) accuracy of inventory records is
necessary to provide satisfactory customer service, determine replenishment of individual
items; ensure that material availability meets repair or project demand, analyze inventory
levels and dispose of excess inventory. Bailey and Farmer (1982) argue that stock
recording are expected to maintain particulars of receipt, issues and balances remaining in
stock for each individual item held in the storehouse daily.
Baily and Farmer (1982) argue that transactions must be posted promptly and correctly to
the records if they are to provide accurate up-to-date information which the stock
controller needs. If left pending for long, transactions can easily be forgotten and the
objective of maintaining stock records will not be met because stock records will be
indicating balances that are not real and hence the records will not be reliable. Therefore
maintaining accurate and up-to-date information of stock recording is one of the crucial
tasks of warehouse personnel.
14
According to Carter and Price (1993), receipt of goods must be strictly controlled to ensure
efficient stores management. Contributing to the function of receipt and inspection of
goods, Jessop and Morrison (1994) agree that goods supplied to an organization must be
properly looked after. Normally, a certain process of stores recording is followed, which in
its natural course forms the basis of stores accounting system. PSI/Et Warehouse Manual
(2010) argues appropriate standard records and documents should be used for receipts and
inspection of goods.
Jessop and Morrison (1994) argue items in stock represent money and therefore should not
be misappropriated, wasted or improperly used. Storekeepers should have full details of
the name, designation and specimen signatures of all persons empowered to approve issue
notes. Further, issue documents should contain the description and stores code number
entered by the user who prepares the document in the first place. According to Carter and
Price (1993) specialized control documents have been developed to enable the issue of
stock to be successfully monitored and controlled. It is important to ensure that all stock
records are updated and that an accurate picture of the total stock situation can be
maintained to ensure sufficient supplies of all materials.
Stock control as described by Jessop and Morrison (1994) is the operation of continuously
arranging flows of materials so that stock balances are adequate to support the current rate
of consumption, with due regard to economy. Stock control documentation therefore is the
capture of data relating to stock balances, dues in, dues out, consumption record, forecast
requirement, lead-time and economic order quantities (EOQ).
Jessop and Morrison (1994) argue stock records are important when estimating future
consumption because past performance acts as a guide. PSI/Et Warehouse Manual (2010)
recommends that the basic method of controlling stock by quantity is by means of fixing,
for each commodity, stock levels which are recorded in the stock record system and
subsequently used as a means of indicating when some action is necessary. Carter and
Price (1993) argue that stock records and control are two sections of stores management
that have to work very closely together because stock records provide statistical
information.
Susan & Michael (2000) argue that stock records provide the management with the
information which is used to ensure accountability through stocktaking and stock audit
exercise. Jessop and Morrison (1994) argue that records can be posted manually but,
where the volume and complexity of the documents handled is of major proportion
15
mechanical methods are often to be more effective. Manual posting is comparatively slow,
there is high risk of filling the wrong detail, and it can be easily misplaced or lost due to
multiple handling as compared to computer posting system.
2.10 Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework includes independent variables identified as long bureaucratic

procurement practice, inventory audit practice, high inventory carrying cost, inventory
stock record practice and staff skill & experience on one hand inventory control as
dependent variable. The problem under investigation was inventory control as affected by
the identified independent variables. Inventory control is shown on the right side while the
independent variables are shown on the left hand side in figure 2.2.
INDEPENDENT VARIABLES DEPENDANT VARIABLES
Figure 2.2 Conceptual framework.

Source: (Author, 2014).
16
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHDOLOGY
This chapter describes the methods and procedures that are used in carrying out this
research. It deals with the research design, population and sampling technique, sources of
data and data collection tools, data collection procedures, validity and reliability of
instruments, data processing and analysis and ethical considerations.
3.1 Research Design
The study adopted a descriptive research design. According to Mugenda & Mugenda
(2003), descriptive research is used to obtain information concerning the current status of
the phenomena to describe what exists, with respect to variables or conditions in a
situation. Descriptive research design is used in this study since the researcher intended to
look at the problem at hand thoroughly to define it, clarify it, and obtain pertinent
information that could be of use in assessment of factors that influence inventory
control/management. The research conducted through a case study of Population Services
International Ethiopia.
3.2 Population and Sampling Techniques
3.2.1 Population of the Study
Population refers to the group about whom the researcher wants to know more and from
whom a sample can be drawn. This is often defined in terms of educational standard,
position and occasion time, etc. The study targeted staff in all the nine categories of
Population Services International Ethiopia (PSI/Et). The target population from which the
information was solicited by the researcher were 128 (one hundred twenty eight)
employees involved in controlling inventory or any other related activities in PSI/Et.
3.2.2 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques
A sample size is a finite part of a statistical population whose properties are studied to gain
information about the whole. The researcher employed a stratified sampling technique
17
which is a probability sampling technique wherein the researcher divides the entire
population into different subgroups or strata, then randomly selects the final subjects
proportionally from the different strata. Stratified random sampling was necessary since
the study had sub-groups in target population whose response was important in achieving
the objectives of the study. The main factor considered in determining the sample size was
to keep it manageable enough and also to enable the researcher to derive from it detailed
data at an affordable cost in terms of time, finances and human resource (Mugenda &
Mugenda, 2003).
Data were collected from the managerial, professional and clerical employees. The
researcher took 30% of the target population in proportion to the size of the stratum
(categories), since it has been confirmed that such a sample size is adequate for a
descriptive survey study (Patton, 2002).
A sample size of 38 respondents was selected from the target population (128). The
breakdown of the sample size was as follows:
Table 3.1 Sample size determination of the study
No Categories No of Employees Sample size (30%)

1 Child Survival 3 1
2 DCP-STI Project 3 1
3 HR and Operations 31 9
4 Finance and Grants 10 3
5 MULU/MARPS 45 14
6 MULU/WORKPLACE 8 2
7 Procurement 5 1
8 Product SC & D 10 3
9 Technical Services 13 4
Total 128 38
Source: (Document survey, December 2014)
3.3 Sources of Data and Data Collection Tools
Both primary and secondary sources of data were used in this research. The researcher
collected primary data by administering a questionnaire. The study used closed & open
ended questions and five point Likert scale questions. The questionnaire used structured
questions, divided into five sections “A”, “B”, “C” “D”, “E” and “F”. Section A consisted
of the demographical background of respondents. Section B and C referred to the
bureaucratic procurement procedures and inventory carrying cost respectively. Section D
18
and E consisted stock record practices and stock audit practices respectively. Section F
consisted of staff skill and experience.
Secondary data were also used from PSI/Et which had readily existed. It was intended to
include both internal and external sources like warehouse manual, GIA audit reports,
internal and external audit reports depending on the nature and scope of the information
needed.
3.4 Data Collection Procedures
This was the steps/processes used by the researcher while collecting data using the
collection instrument. Structured questionnaire was administered to the main respondents.
The questionnaire was delivered by hand to the respondents at their duty stations during
working hours personally. It was issued and collected after a week to give respondents
enough time to answer the questions.
3.5 Data Processing and Analysis
Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) confirm that the main purpose of content analysis is to
study existing information in order to determine factors that explain specific phenomenon.
To this extent, the responses to the questions were interpreted and put into different
specific and relevant categories. Being a descriptive research the data from questionnaire
was summarized, edited, coded, tabulated and analyzed using descriptive methods which
were illustrated the diverse findings of the study. The descriptive methods used involves;
frequencies, percentages and presentations of tables and graphs. Data were analyzed using
software program of a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The study adopted
quantitative data analysis. Information about the scores in a sample was presented in
frequency tables, bar graphs and pie charts. All tables, bar graphs and pie charts are clearly
labeled and presented so that the reader could rapidly make sense of the information
contained in them. The results of the data gave the researcher a basis to make conclusions
about the study.
3.6 Validity and Reliability of Instruments
The structured questionnaire validity was provided through adequate coverage of the topic
under investigation as per the expert advice. According to Mugenda & Mugenda (2003),
expert opinion is used to check the content and format of an instrument to judge validity of
19
the content. The construct validity was ascertained by defining clearly the variables to be
measured. According to Mugenda & Mugenda (2003), the test-retest method of assessing
reliability of data involves administering the same instrument twice to the same group of
subjects. Reliability of the instruments was provided through a test retest conducted in the
same organization by using respondents who were not part of the study sample but work in
the organization and in positions relevant to the research study.
The questionnaire was subjected to a validity test. Pre testing was done to see the
applicability of the tools and seeing how the questionnaire was acceptable to the
respondents. Pre testing was done in the product SC &D at Population Services
International Ethiopia. After the pre test, alterations were made to the tool.
3.7 Ethical Considerations
The study was primarily focused to gather primary qualitative data to analyze the factors
influencing inventory control of PSI/Et. The study neither involves any experiment on
human subjects nor conducted without the consent of the study participants. Above all, the
researcher did not ask the study participants to engage into risks as a result of participating
in this study. Besides, informed verbal consent was obtained from the key respondents
during data collection. The respondents were given the right to refuse or take part in the
study.
All the primary and secondary data collection in the organization was under the permission
of the managers and without any offence in ethical rules during the whole research
process.
20
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATIONS
This chapter presents the data analysis and interpretation of the findings. The findings are
based on data collected by the use of questionnaire so as to assess factors influencing the
effectiveness of inventory control in PSI/Et. The analysis is performed around the
objectives for this study; however, other relevant details are added for better presentation
of findings.
4.1 Response Rate
The researcher made every effort to reach all the relevant respondents in all the nine
categories. As stated under methodology, a total of thirty eight (38) copies of questionnaire
were distributed, and thirty three (33) retrieved as correctly filled which were subsequently
used in the analysis. The table below shows the rate of response.
Table 4.1 Rate of response
No Categories Questionnaire Questionnaire Rate of respondents

Distributed Responded (%)
Child Survival 1 1 100
1 DCP-STI Project 1 1 100
2 HR and Operations 9 8 89
3 Finance and Grants 3 3 100
4 MULU/MARPS 14 11 79
5 MULU/WORKPLACE 2 2 100
6 Procurement 1 1 100
7 Product SCD 3 3 100
8 Technical Services 4 3 75
9 Total 38 33 87
Source: (Own survey, December 2014)
As it can be noted from table 4.1 above, the researcher obtained feedback from thirty three
(33) respondents out of the targeted thirty eight (38) respondents across the nine categories
of PSI/Et. Child survival, DCP STI project, finance and grants, MULU WORK PLACE,
Procurement, and Product SC &D all registered 100% response rate. On the other hand
HR and Operations registered 89% response rate, MULU MARPS register 79% response
rate and Technical Services registered 75% response rate.
21
4.2 Findings of Demographic Characteristics of Respondents
The findings of demographic characteristics of the sample include: gender, age, position,
level of education, and year of service. This aspect of the analysis deals with the personal
data on the respondents of the questionnaire given to them. Table 4.2 below shows the
details of background information of the respondents in tabular form.
Table 4.2 Result summary of demographic characteristics of respondents

Gender of Respondents
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Male 25 75.8 75.8 75.8
Female 8 24.2 24.2 100
Total 33 100 100
Age Group of Respondents
19-30 Years 9 27.3 27.3 27.3
31-40 Years 21 63.6 63.6 90.9
41-50 Years 2 6.1 6.1 97
50 + Years 1 3 3 100
Total 33 100 100
Current Position o: ‘ Respondents
Managerial 5 15.2 15.2 15.2
Non-managerial 28 84.8 84.8 100
Total 33 100 100
Educational Background of Respondents
Masters 8 24.2 24.2 24.2
Bachelors 22 66.7 66.7 90.9
Diploma 3 9.1 9.1 100
Total 33 100 100
Service Year of JRespondents
Less than 1 Year 2 6.1 6.1 6.1
2 to 5 Years 11 33.3 33.3 39.4
6 to 10 Years 10 30.3 30.3 69.7
11 to 15 Years 6 18.2 18.2 87.9
15 + Years 4 12.1 12.1 100
Total 33 100 100
22
As noted in table 4.2 above, the majority of the respondents (75.8%) were male and the
remaining 24.2 % were female. This shows that many males participated in the study
because in most cases they dominate the handling of inventory in the organization. They
have got their own inefficiencies that lead to negative contribution towards inventory
control of a given organization.
As shown in table 4.2 above, it indicates that 63.6% of the staffs of PSI/Et were in the age
bracket of 31-40 years, 27.3% of the staffs were in the age bracket of 19-30 years, 6.1% of
the staffs were 41-50 years and 3.0% of respondents were in the age of above 50 years.
However, the research revealed that none of the staff of the organization were under the
age of 19 years. This implies that all the respondents were above age nineteen years and
could give reliable data for the study.
As depicted in table 4.2 above, from the total thirty three (33) respondents only five
respondents (15.2%) were from managerial position while eight four point eight (84.8%)
respondents out of 33 were from non-managerial position. This implies that for the
credibility of the research participated both managerial and non managerial employees of
the organization.
As indicated in table 4.2 above, the majority of the respondents of PSI/Et were bachelor
(first degree) holders accounting about 66.7% of the staff. On the other hand 24.2% were
second degree holders while 9.1% had other qualification apart from university degree.
None of the staff of the organization holds a senior high school certificate. This implies
that all respondents acquired knowledge through formal education.
As depicted in table 4.2 above, it shows that 33.3% of the respondent had the experience
of 2-5 years of service in the area of inventory control section, 30.3% respondent had the
experience in the age bracket of 6 to 10 years of inventory section, 18.2 % of the
respondent had the experience in the area of inventory control section for age bracket of 11
to 15 years and 12.1 % had served in the area of inventory control section for more than 15
years. The research also revealed that 6.1 % of the respondent had experienced in
inventory control section for less than a year. This shows that more than one third (39.4%)
of the respondents are not that much experienced because of working for period of 1 - 5
years.
23
4.3 Findings of Bureaucratic Procurement Procedure
The findings of bureaucratic procurement procedure of the sample include: experience on

long bureaucratic purchase difficulties, frequency of stock out and respondents view on
whether long bureaucratic procurement procedure affects inventory control. This aspect of
the analysis deals with the review of respondents on the questionnaire about bureaucratic
procurement procedure in the organization. Respondents were required to tick according
to how they felt about the issues of bureaucratic procurement procedure in the
organization. Figure 4.2 to figure 4.4 below show the details of review of the respondents
in pictorial form
4.3.1 Result summary of whether there were experienced long bureaucratic purchase
difficulties
As shown in figure 4.2 below, long bureaucratic procurement procedure related purchase
difficulties in Population Service International Ethiopia were reported by 27 of the
respondents out of 33 respondents. It was only 6 respondents out of 33 (18.2%) of
respondent who were not experienced long bureaucratic purchase difficulties. On the other
hand 81.8 % of the respondents were experienced long bureaucratic procurement
procedure related purchase difficulties that made the purchase of goods difficult.
Figure 4.1 Result summary of experienced bureaucratic procurement difficulties

The results of the finding are similar with other scholars. According to Burton (1981), the
long procedures in procurement have made the purchase of goods and services difficult, as
all of them have to follow step by step making the process cumbersome and discouraging,
resulting into a lot of inefficiencies and irregularities.
24
4.3.2 Result summary of stock out frequency due to bureaucratic procedure purchase
difficulties
As depicted in Figure 4.3 below, 48.5 % of respondents indicated that stock out in the
organization due to long bureaucratic procedure purchase difficulties was frequent while
21.2% respondents indicated that stock out was less frequent in the organization. However,
30.3 % of respondent indicated that stock out in the organization is rare.
Stock out frequency
50
40
30
20
10
0
Rarely Less Frequently Very Most
frequently frequently frequently
■ Frequency ■ Percent
igure 4.2 Result summary of stock out frequency due to bureaucratic purchase difficulties
The finding implies the long bureaucratic procurement procedure negatively influences
inventory control of the organization.
4.3.3 Result summary of respondents view on whether long bureaucratic

procurement practice affects inventory control
As it can be noted from figure 4.4 below, 60.6% of the respondents strongly agreed with
the statement, 18.2% agreed, 4.8% were neither agreed nor disagreed and 6.1% of
respondents indicated somewhat disagreed. Finally 6.1% respondents indicated strongly
disagreed. Since majority of the respondents (78.8%) agreed with the statement, it implies
that long bureaucratic procurement practice affects inventory control the organization and
therefore the organization should ensure to avoid long bureaucratic procurement procedure
to improve inventory control.
25
Long bureaucratic Procurment procedure affects inventory control
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Strongly Somewhat Neither Somewhat Strongly
disagree disagree agree nor agree agree
disagree
Figure 4.3 Result summary of long bureaucratic procurement procedure affects inventory control
The finding agrees with the Osborne & Plastrik (1997) finding who indicated that
bureaucratic organization has some significant negative side effect. According those
Scholars, too much red tapes and paper work not only lead to unpleasant experiences but
also to inefficient operations.
4.4 Findings of Inventory Carrying Cost
The findings of Inventory carrying cost of the sample include: determination of inventory
order size, insurance coverage, availability of expired, obsolescence and damaged
inventory items in the warehouse, and respondents view on whether carrying cost affects
inventory control of the organization. This aspect of the analysis deals with the review of
respondents on questionnaires about inventory carrying cost. Figure 4.5 to 4.9 below
show the details of review of the respondents in pictorial form.
4.4.1 Result summary of the determination of inventory order size
As indicated at Figure 4.5 below, thirty six point four percent (36.4%) of respondents
indicated that inventory order size were determined by vehicle capacity, 27.3% of
respondents indicated that inventory order size were determined by past experience. On
the other hand 33.3% and 3.0% of respondents indicated that inventory order sizes were
determined by forecasting and mathematical model respectively.
26
Determination of inventory order size
40
30
20
10
0
Past experience Vehicle capacity Forecasting Mathematical
Model
Figure 4.4 Result summary of determination of inventory order point

The study revealed that the respondents were almost not used mathematical model to
determine inventory reorder level of the organization. Thus ordering cost were increased
inventory carrying cost.
4.4.2 Result summary of insurance coverage to inventory items
As noted from figure 4.6 below, sixty three point six percent (63.6%) of respondents
indicated that there was insurance coverage for inventory items. On the other hand 27.3%
of respondents indicated that there was no insurance coverage for the inventory items.
However, 9.1% of the respondents indicated that they refused to answer whether there was
insurance coverage or not for inventory items in the organization.
Figure 4.5 Result summary of Insurance coverage to inventory items

27
The study revealed that insurance premium was paid out for those over stocked items
which eventually increase carrying cost of the organization.
4.4.3 Result summary of expired, obsolescence and damaged inventory items in the
warehouse
As it can be noted from figure 4.7 below, seventy eight point eight percent (78.8%) of
respondent indicated that there was expired, obsolescence and damaged inventories in the
warehouse. On the other hand there were only 21.2% of respondent who were reported as
there was no expired, obsolescence and damaged inventory in their warehouse.
Figure 4.6 Result summary of the availability of expired, damaged and obsolescence items
The finding agrees with the Goldsby & Martichenko (2005) finding who indicated that
obsolescence reflects the real possibility that inventory value may decline in the course of
being kept. Thus a decline in inventory value increases carrying cost.
4.4.4 Result summary of inventory over stock in the warehouse
As indicated in figure 4.8 below, seventy two point seven percent (72.7%) of respondent
indicated that some items of inventories were over stocked in the organization. On the
other hand 27.3 % of respondents reported that inventories were not overstocked in the
organization. This shows that the organization capital cost was tied up due to over stock of
some items of inventories in the organization.
28
Inventory overstock
Figure 4.7 Result summary of inventory over stock

The finding agrees with the Goldsby & Martichenko (2005) findings who indicated that
money were been tied up on those over stock inventories. According those Scholars,
capital cost is the single biggest factor of inventory carrying cost. It is opportunity cost; to
clarify its sense, just think about what else could be done with the amount of capital if it
were not tied up in inventory.
4.4.5 Result summary of respondents view on whether high carrying cost affects
inventory control
As it can be noted from the figure 4.9 below, 60.6% of the respondents were strongly
agreed with the statement and 24.2% agreed. On the other hand.0% were somewhat
disagreed and 9.1% strongly disagreed. However, 3.0% were neither agreed nor disagreed.
High carrying cost affects inventory control
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Strongly Somewhat Neither agree Somewhat Strongly
disagree disagree nor disagree agree agree
Figure 4.8 Result summary of extent to agree on high carrying cost affects inventory control
29
Since majority of the respondents (84.8%) agreed with the statement, it implies that high
carrying cost affects inventory control of the organization and the organization should
ensure that inventory carrying cost should kept at a possible minimum level.
4.5 Findings of Inventory Audit Practices
The findings of stock audit practice of the sample include: system of stock audit,
frequency of stock audit practice, and respondents view on whether stock audit practice
affects inventory control in the organization. This aspect of the analysis deals with the
review of respondents on questionnaires about inventory audit practices. Figure 4.10 to
4.14 below show the details of review of the respondents in pictorial form.
4.5.1 Result summary of whether there was stock audit system in the organization
As it can be noted from figure 2.10 below, 90.9 % respondents indicated that there was
stock audit system in their respective organization. On the other hand 9.1% respondents
indicated that there was no stock audit system in their organization.
Figure 4.9 Result summary of stock audit system in the organization

The result of the finding implies stock taking is not 100 % implemented in the
organization which might influences inventory control of the organization
4.5.2 Result summary of frequency of Stock taking in the organization
As indicated in figure 4.11 below, the majority of respondents (54.5%) of the respondents
reported that they were conducting inventory count on a monthly basis, 15.1% of
respondents indicated that they were conducting inventory count on a weekly basis, 6.1%
30
of respondents indicated that they were conducting inventory count on quarterly basis. On
the other hand 6.1% and 9.1% of respondents indicated that they were conducting
inventory on biannual and annual basis respectively. However, 9.1 %( three respondents)
indicated that there was no stock taking at all.
Stock taking frequency
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Weekly Monthly Quarterly Biannually Annually None
Figure 4.10 Result summary of stock taking frequency

The finding agrees with the Jessop and Morrison (1994) findings who indicated that there
must be a regular stock taking. According to Jessop and Morrison (1994), there must be a
regular stock taking to check on surplus, obsolete and obsolescence stock from the
warehouse to assist in matching the physical and record balances for efficient working
condition and also in harmonizing the discrepancies to reflect the actual position in the
store. The study reveals that there is no specific time in which the stock taking exercise
should be conducted.
4.5.3 Result summary of the frequency of reviewing inventory records and reports
As it can be noted from figure 4.12 below, 30.3 % of respondents indicated that review
frequency of inventory records and reports in the organizations were less frequent, 15.2%
of respondents indicated that review frequency of inventory records and reports in the
organizations ware rare. On the other hand 42.4 % of respondent indicated that review
frequency of inventory records and reports in the organization were frequent, 3% and 9.1%
of respondents indicated that review frequency of inventory records in the organization
were very frequent and most frequent respectively
31
Review frequency of inventory reports & records
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Rarely Less Frequently Very Most
frequently frequently frequently
Figure 4.11Result Summary of the frequency of review inventory records and reports
The figure above reveals that there was no specific time in which the inventory record
updates and reports reviewing exercise should be conducted.
4.5.4 Result summary of whether there were experienced discrepancies between

actual and physical stock balance
As indicated in Figure 4.13 below, 78.8% respondents indicated that they were
experienced discrepancies between stock card balance and physical count of the stock. On
the other hand 9.1% of respondents indicated that there were no experienced discrepancies
between stock card balance & physical count.
Figure 4.12 Result summary of experienced discrepancies between actual and physical stock balance
32
However, 12.1% of the respondents were refused to answer whether to answer whether
there were experienced discrepancies between stock card balance and physical count of the
stock. Discrepancies were less likely to occur in cases where stock taking was done more
frequently.
4.5.5 Result summary of respondents view on whether stock audit practice affects
inventory control of the organization
As indicated from the figure 4.14 below, 48.5% of the respondents were strongly agreed
with the statement and the other 24.2% of respondents were agreed.
Stock audit practice affects inventory control
60
40
20
0
disagree
Figure 4.13 Result summary of stock audit practice affects inventory control
On the other hand 12.1% and 9.1% of respondents indicated that they were strongly
disagree and somewhat disagree with the statement respectively. However, 6.1% were
neither agreed nor disagreed. Since majority of the respondents (72.7%) agreed with the
statement, it implies that stock audit practice affects inventory control of the organization
and the organization has to ensure strong stock audit procedure.
4.6 Findings of Stock Record Practice
The findings of stock audit practice of the sample include: inventory record maintenance,
nature of inventory record system, frequency inventory record update, level of satisfaction
with the current inventory record system and respondents view on whether poor stock
record practice affects inventory control. This aspect of analysis deals with the review of
33
respondents on questionnaire about stock record practices. Figure 4.15 to 4.19 below show
the details of review of the respondents in pictorial form.
4.6.1 Result summary of whether there was inventory record maintenance in the
organization
As it can be noted from figure 4.15 below, all respondents indicated that there was
maintenance of inventory record in their respective categories.
Figure 4.14 Result summary of maintaining inventory record

The result of the finding implies that the organization had a policy of maintaining
inventory record in all the five categories.
4.6.2 Result summary of the nature of inventory record system in the organization
Indeed as shown in Figure 4.16 below, 60.6 % of respondents indicated that inventory
control posting systems within their respective categories were both manual and
computerized. On the other hand 15.2 % of respondents indicated that the nature of
inventory record system is fully computerized. However, 24.2 % of respondents indicated
that the nature of record system is manual that implies, lack of proper automation of the
entire stock control system was indicated as a challenge to proper maintenance of stock
records system.
34
Nature of Inventory record system
70
60
50
40
■ Frequency
30
■ Percent
20
10
0
Manual Computerized Both manual and
Computerized
Figure 4.15 Result summary of the nature of inventory record system

The result of the finding implies that it is cumbersome to manipulate stock control data
without the aid of stock control software. It is clear that the 24.2% of respondents rely on
manual system which can result to inaccuracies, errors, delayed reports, poor forecasting
& ineffective decision making.
4.6.3 Result summary of level of satisfaction with the current inventory record system
As indicated in the figure 4.17 below, 48.5% of respondents were somewhat dissatisfied
and 6.1% of respondents were most dissatisfied with the current inventory record system
of the organization.
Level of satisfuction with the current inventory record system
50
40
30
20
10
0
Most Somewhat Neither Somewhat Most
dissatisfied dissatisfied dissatisfied satisfied satisfied
nor satisfied
Figure 4.16 Result summary of level of satisfaction with the current inventory record system
35
The level of satisfaction with these systems was low with only 18.2% and 21.2% of
respondents reporting were mostly satisfied and somewhat satisfied with current inventory
record system respectively. Satisfaction was more commonly reported among respondents
in departments that conducted stock taking more frequently. On the other hand 6.1% of
respondent indicated that level of satisfaction were neither dissatisfied nor satisfied with
the current inventory record system. Basing on the above responses, 54.6% of the
respondents were not satisfied with the current inventory record system of the
organization.
4.6.4 Result summary of frequency of inventory record update in the organization
Indeed as shown in figure 4.18 below, 51.5 % of respondents indicated that the frequency
of inventory record update within their respective categories were on monthly basis and
24.2 % of respondents indicated that the frequency of inventory record update were on
weekly basis. On the other hand 6.1 % and 18.2% of respondents indicated that the
frequencies of inventory record update were on immediately and daily basis respectively.
Frquency of inventory record update
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Daily Monthly Weekly Immediately None
Figure 4.17 Result summary of frequency of inventory record update

Source: Source: (Own survey, December 2014)
The figure above reveals that there is no specific time in which the stock recording
exercise should be conducted. Jessop and Morrison (1994) had emphasized on the
important to design receipt and issuing times and days for good to and from the warehouse
in order to give time stock control staff adequate time to do the posting of records.
36
4.6.5 Result summary of respondents view on whether poor stock record practice
affects inventory control
As indicated in the figure 4.19 below, 57.6 % of the respondents were strongly agreed with
the statement and 24.2% of respondents were somewhat agreed. On the other hand 12.1%
and 3.0% of respondents were strongly disagree and somewhat agree with the statement
respectively. However, 3.0 % of respondent were neither agreed nor disagreed with the
statement.
Poor stock record practicde affcts inventory control
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
disagree
Figure 4.18 Result summary of the extent to agree on poor stock record practice affects inventory
Since majority of the respondents (81.8%) agreed with the statement, it implies that poor
stock record practice affects inventory control and the organization must ensure the
development an excellent /automated stock record system in the organization.
4.7 Findings of Staff Skill and Experience
The findings of stock audit practice of the sample include: service years in inventory
control section, pre/post employment training on inventory control, level of training and
respondents view on whether staff skill and experience affects inventory control. This
aspect of the analysis deals with the review of respondents on questionnaires about staff
skill and experience. Figure 4.20 to 4.23 below show the details of review of the
respondents in pictorial form.
37
4.7.1 Result summary of service year in inventory control
As it can be noted from figure 2.20 below, 42.4% of the respondents had been performing
inventory control function for the periods of between 2 to 5 years and 27.3 % had been
performing inventory control functions of periods of between 6 to 10 years. On the other
hand 12.1% and 6.1% of respondents indicated that they have worked in inventory control
functions for periods of between 6 to 10 years and above 15 years respectively. However,
12.1% of respondents reported having worked in inventory control functions for less than
1year.
Service year in the area of inventory control
100
80
60
40
20
0
Less than 1 2 to 5 years 6 to 10 11 to 15 15+ years Total
year Years years
Figure 2.19 Result summary of service year in inventory control

It is indicated in figure 2.20 above, a total of 54.5% of respondents were having work
experience of less than five year inventory control. This shows that most of the officers
working in inventory control unit had no much experience which might be a factor that
influences the effectiveness of inventory control. Jessop and Morrison (1994) were on
opinion that experienced personnel should be employed in the organization to help in
proper stock recording system.
4.7.2 Result summary of pre/post employment training on inventory control
As indicated in figure 2.21 below, fifty seven point six percent (57.6 %) respondents
indicated that they were received pre/post employment training on inventory control. On
the other hand 14 out of 33 of respondents (42.4%) indicated that they did not received
pre/post employment training about inventory control.
38
Figure 2.20 Result summary of pre/post employment training on inventory control
The response indicated that post employment training was not a common means for
preparing staff before deployment to inventory control sections in the organization. This
implies that most of the staff has only the educational qualification out of inventory
management area which might have an effect on efficiency of inventory control. Bailey
and Farmer (1982) say that, if staff involved in stock control is not qualified and
competent, then there will be ineffectiveness in inventory control.
4.7.3 Result summary of the level of training in inventory control
As indicated in figure 4.22 below, forty two point four percent (42.4%) respondents were
taken pre/post inventory control training and received certificate.
Level of training in inventory control
50
40
30
20
10
0
Certificate Diploma Degree None
Figure 4.21 Result summary of level of training in inventory control

39
On the other hand 9.1% and 6.1% of respondent were taken pre/post inventory
management training indicated that they received diploma and degree respectively.
However, 14 out of 33(42.4%) respondents received none about inventory control. All the
14 respondents out of 33 indicated that the training was very essential as had helped them
to be more efficient and effective in performing their daily duties.
The study finding agrees with Jessop and Morrison (1994) finding, who were on opinion
that well trained personnel, should be employed in the organization to help in proper stock
recording system. Carter and price (1993) indicate that training of staff is vital if full use is
to be made of their abilities and talents.
4.7.4 Result summary of respondents view on whether staff skill and experience
affects inventory control
As it can be noted from 4.23 below, 78.8 % of the respondents were strongly agreed with
the statement and 9.1% of respondents were somewhat agreed. On the other hand 9.1%
and 3.0% of respondents were strongly disagree and somewhat disagree with the statement
respectively.
Staff skill and experience affects inventory control
80
60
40
20
0
disagree
Figure 4.22 Result Summary of staff skill and experience affects inventory control
Since majority of the respondents (87.9%) agreed with the statement, it implies that staff
skill and experience affects inventory control and the organization should ensure that
adequately trained, experienced and qualified personnel must be employed.
40
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDIATIONS
This chapter presents a summary of key data findings, conclusions drawn from the
findings highlighted and recommendations made there-to. The conclusions and
recommendations drawn focused on assessing factors influencing the effectiveness of
inventory control at Population Services International Ethiopia.
5.1 Summary of the Major Findings
This study had five objectives. To evaluate the effect of procurement procedure to the
effectiveness of inventory control, to examine the effect of high inventory carrying cost to
the effectiveness of inventory control, to analyze the effect of poor stock record practice to
the effectiveness of inventory control, to examine the effects of staff skill procedures to the
effectiveness of inventory control and to determine the effects of stock audit practices to
the effectiveness of Inventory control. The five variables were found to have an effect on
the effectiveness of inventory control at PSI/Et.
5.1.1 Bureaucratic Procurement Procedure
The study found that long bureaucratic procurement procedures are being experienced in
PSI/Et making the purchase of goods difficult. As a result, delays in procurement of goods
cannot be avoided. Having cumbersome procurement procedures was the cause of long
bureaucratic delays. The study revealed that long bureaucratic procurement procedure
affects inventory control of the organization. The study also revealed that: delays in
procurement of goods, frequent stock-outs, and poor inventory control were some of the
effects of long bureaucratic procedure which have a negative effect on effectiveness of
inventory control.
5.1.2 Inventory carrying cost
The study found that there is high carrying cost in population services international
Ethiopia. The research revealed that money was being tied up on some of those over
stocked inventories. Hence capital cost is the single biggest factor of inventory carrying
cost; it is opportunity cost the organization. Thus excess product created additional
41
inventory carrying cost. Besides the study found that there was stock out of some crucial
items that causes lost sales; thus lost sales increased inventory carrying cost of the
organization. The study revealed that there are expired, damage and obsolescence products
which eventually increases carrying cost and affects inventory control of the organization.
The study also revealed that high carrying cost affected inventory control of the
organization.
5.1.3 Inventory Audit system
The study revealed that there was no specific time in which the stock taking exercise was
set to take place, discrepancies between actual and physical stock balances is evident. The
respondents attributed the discrepancy between the physical stock balance and balances
reflected in stock control record to be attributing factor for theft and pilferage, frequent
stock out of some crucial items and poor planning. Thus stock audit practice affected
negatively the inventory control of the organization.
The study also revealed that there was no specific time in which the review of inventory
records and reports was set to take place which had a direct effect on inventory control.
Majority of respondents believed that stock audit practice affects inventory control of the
organization.
5.1.4 Stock Record system
The study found that lack of a fully computerized system for posting inventory data was
one of the factors that affect the effectiveness of inventory control to a great extent. The
study revealed that majority of the respondents was not satisfied with the current system
used. The study also revealed that lack of specific time or date for posting stores records
had a direct effect on inventory control. Majority of respondents believe that poor stock
record practice affects inventory control of PSI/Et. Poor stock recoding have a negative
effect on inventory control activity.
The study also found out that stock record facilities were not adequately provided; only
partial automation of stock control systems and software were available and therefore the
principle merit of a good and proper system stock record and benefits of perpetual stock
verification system could not be attained, additionally sound stock record system vital for
procurement decision making was also not accomplished.
42
5.1.5 Staff Skill and experience
The study revealed that, the skills mix and experience of respondents working in the
inventory control sections within the organization showed considerable variation. In effort
to determine the highest level of education, the findings reveals that at all personnel had
attended formal education but attained different level of educational qualifications. The
findings showed that it is almost only half percentage of staff involved in inventory control
function have undertaken pre/post employment training in different aspects of inventory
control. The study also revealed that post employment training was not a common means
for preparing staff before deployment to inventory control sections.
5.2 Conclusions
5.2.1 Bureaucratic Procurement Procedure
There are long bureaucratic procurement procedures being experience in the organization
arising as a result of intra-departmental communication and planning, decision making
processes and having a very elaborate procurement procedure. The long bureaucratic
procedures have various negative effects that include delays in procurement of goods,
frequent stock-outs /under-stocking, and poor inventory control.
5.2.2 Inventory Carrying Cost
It can be concluded that most of the staff did not use any mathematical model for
determination of inventory order size as a result there was high ordering cost. There was
high inventory carrying cost in the organization arising as a result of over stock, under
stock, damage, expired and obsolescence items in the organization. Capital had been tied
up on those overstock items, sales was lost on those under stocked items and capital cost
was declined due to expired, obsolescence and expired items. Thus high carrying cost in
the organization negatively affected inventory control of the organization.
5.2.3 Stock Audit Practice
It can be concluded that aspects of existing stock audit practice had influence on the
effectiveness of inventory control of the organization. There was no specific time in which
the stock taking exercise was set to take place, reviewing of stock records and reports,
discrepancies between actual and physical stock balances is evident. The discrepancy
43
between the physical stock balance and actual balance reflected in stock control record to
be attributing factor for frequent stock out of some crucial items and poor planning.
5.2.4 Stock record practice
It can be concluded that aspects of existing stock records practice had influence on the
effectiveness of inventory control of the organization. The lack of immediate update of
inventory records used in stock control leading to inefficiencies in updating previously
accumulated documentation work and finally indirect violation of inventory control
regulations due to late entry. Failure to have a specific time or date for posting of
inventory records greatly affected inventory control. Manual recording systems and delays
in posting of inventory records causing discrepancies between actual and physical stock
balances influenced inventory control of the organization.
5.2.5 Staff Skill and Experience
It is showed that most of the officers working in inventory control units have less than five
year work experience which was a factor that influenced the effectiveness of inventory
controls. Most of the officers working in inventory control section do not have the
necessary professional qualifications in inventory management. Post employment training
is not common in inventory control sections. Staff skill and experience contributed to
ineffectiveness of inventory control due to deficient of stores officer qualifications, lack of
training & record procedure violation.
5.4 Recommendations
In light of the findings outlined herein, the following recommendations were made:
i) Too much cumbersome rules and reliance on rigid rules and policies that slow down
procurement process should be avoided by adopting a recent technology. Modernize the
procurement process through computerization of the systems for example embracing the
E-procurement, which will realize real time procurement thus increasing transparency in
procuring goods and services. It will also help in overhauling the paper based system that
is inefficient and lower transactions cost.
ii) To stay relevant and up-to-date on inventory carrying cost, it is essential for the
organization to invest in a reliable inventory control system. As far as possible, carrying
cost should be kept at a minimum possible level. Over stock and under stock of products
44
should be avoided. Another recommendation is to utilize the economic order quantity
model. Inventory management software designed to use EOQ takes organizations’ historic
sales data and makes assumptions based on that data. EOQ provides sufficiently accurate
predictions to control ordering and inventory costs.
iii) The current inventory audit practices and procedures need to be reviewed and
redesigned while a fully computerized stock record system for posting inventory control
data is adopted.
(iv) Stock records practice should be complied with fully during receipt, issuing, control
and recording to ensure accurate and timely inventory management information.
(v) Stock record facilities must be adequately provided and full automation of stock
control systems and software availed coupled with proper integration with other areas of
supply chain management to attain the benefits of perpetual stock verification system.
(vi) Warehouse staff should be adequately equipped with appropriate qualifications, proper
training & supervision, ensure adherence of stock record procedures & proper work
allocation to promote effectiveness of stock record systems. The organization should
ensure that inventory control function is only handled by competent well trained supply
chain officers.
5.5 Areas of Further Research
Despite the successes scored during the study, some factors have not been properly
accounted for due to its scope. It is therefore suggested that further research should be
done on some topics related to this one. In this regard, the researcher recommends further
research in the following areas:
i) How to reduce the long bureaucratic procurement procedure at PSI/Et
iii) To determine stock record practice improvement at PSI/Et.
iii) To identify the relevance of improved staff skill in inventory control at PSI/Et.
These areas must be evaluated further because they seem to be the major promoters of
problems of inventory control at Population Service International Ethiopia
45
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limited.
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Hill.
Carter, J., & Price. M. (1993). Integrated material management. London: Pitman.
Clodfelter, R. (2003). Retail buying from basics to fashion. 2nd ed. USA.
Coyle, J., Bardi, E., & Langley, C. (2003). The Management of Business Logistics: A
Supply Chain Perspective. 7th edition. Ohio: South-Western.
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Press Limited.
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to Operational Success. Boca Raton: J. Ross Publishing, Inc.
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Prentice Hall international Editions.
Jessop, D., & Morrison, A. (1994). Storage and supply of materials. 6th ed. London:
Financial Times.
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Seeing the Social World. Pine Forge Press.
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Prentice Hall.
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Delhi: New age international publishers.
Lysons, K, and Gillingham, M. (2003). Purchasing and Supply Chain Management: 6th
ed. London: Financial Times/Prentice Hall.
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Martand, T. (2009)..Production Management. New Delhi: Ram Nagar.
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Approaches. Nairobi: Acts Press
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Piasecki, D. (2001), “Guide to Inventory Accuracy ” Inventory Operations Consulting

LLC.
Reid, R., & Sanders, R. (2007). Operations Management: an integrated approach .3rd
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Rick, L. (1998), “Can you profit from improved Inventory Control?” - Journal of
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47
Appendix
Appendixl: Questionnaire
Questionnaire on an Assessment of Factors Influencing Inventory Control / Management

of Population Services International Ethiopia (PSI/Et).
Dear Participant,
This questionnaire is designed to study on factors influencing inventory control of PSI/Et.

The information you provide will help me better understand the factors influencing
inventory management. Because you are the one who can give me a correct picture of
what factors influence inventory control, I request you to respond to the questions frankly
and honestly.
Note: This questionnaire will be treated confidential and no information will be divulged
to any third party.
Cordially,
Daniel D. (MBA Candidate)
For the following questions, please tick R1 (mark) on the appropriate box to assess the
factors that influence inventory control/ management in PSI/Et.
Section (A) - Demographic Background
1. Gender: □ Male □ Female
2. Age: □ 20-30 Years □ 31-40 Years □ 41-50 Years □ 50 + Years

□ less than 19 Years
3. Current position: □ Managerial □ Non-managerial
4. Educational Background (tick only the highest level you have):
□ Masters □ Bachelors □ Diploma □ completed high School □ Other, Please

specify___________________
48
5. Years of Service: □ less than 1 year □ 2 to 5 years Q6 to 10 years
□ 11 to 15 years □ 15+ years
Section (B)-Effect of Long Bureaucratic Procedures on Inventory Control
1. How often is stock out frequency in the organization?

□ Rarely □ Less Frequently □ Frequently QVery frequently
□ Most frequently
2. How do you determine inventory order size?
□ Past experience □ Vehicle capacity □ Forecasting
□ Mathematical model
3. Have you experienced long bureaucratic related purchase difficulties?
□ Yes □ No
4. If your answer is yes to question # 3 of section (B), what are the causes of these
long bureaucratic purchase difficulties?__________________________________
5. To what extent do you agree that long bureaucratic procurement practice affects
inventory control/management?
□ Strongly disagree □ Somewhat disagree □ Neither agree nor disagree
□ Somewhat Agree □ Strongly agree
Section (C) - Effect of Carrying Cost on Inventory Control
1. Is there any inventory item in the warehouse which is overstocked?

□ Yes □ No
2. Do you have insurance for inventory items?
□ Yes GNo
3. How do you determine inventory order size?
□ Past experience □ Vehicle capacity □ Forecasting □ Mathematical model
4. Do you have any expired, obsolescence and damaged inventory items in
warehouse? □ Yes □ No
5. To what extent do you agree that high carrying /holding cost affects inventory
control?
49
Section (D) - Effect of Stock Record Practice on Inventory Control
1. Do you maintain inventory record? □ Yes GNo

2. What is the nature of your organization inventory record system?
□ Manual □ Computerized □ Both manual and computerized
3. To what extent does the current inventory recording system satisfied you?
□ Most dissatisfied □ Somewhat dissatisfied □ Neither dissatisfied nor satisfied
□ Somewhat satisfied □ Most satisfied
4. Frequency of inventory record update
□ Daily □ Monthly □ Weekly □ Immediately □ Others, Please
specify___________________________________________________________
5. To what extent do you agree that documentation affects inventory Control?
Section (E) - Effect of Stock Audit Practice on Inventory Control/Management
1. Do you have stock audit systems in your organization? □Yes □ No

2. Have you experienced discrepancies between actual and physical stock balances?
□ Yes □ No
3. If your answer is yes for Q#2 of section(E), then what are the possible causes of
discrepancies_______________________________________________________
4. How frequently does stock taking activity done?

□ Weekly □ Monthly □ Quarterly □ Biannually □ Annually
5. Frequency of review of inventory reports and records
□ Rarely □ Less frequently □ Frequently □ Very frequently □ Most frequently
6. To what extent do you agree that stock audit practice affects inventory control
Section (F) - Effect of Staff Skills on Inventory Control/Management
1. How many years have you been working in area of inventory control or Supply
chain & distribution activity?
□ Less than 1 year □ 2 to 5 years □ 6 to 10 years
□ 11 to 15 years □ 15+ years
50
2. Have you taken pre /post employment training on inventory control/Supply Chain
Management? □ Yes □ No
3. If your answer is yes to question #2 of section F what is your level of training?
□ Certificate □ Diploma □ Degree □ None □ Others, please
specify____________
4. To what extent do agree that staff skills on inventory management affect inventory
control?
Thank you for your cooperation!
51
Declaration
I, Daniel Demissie, declare that this report is entirely out of my own effort with the
guidance of my advisor, Assistant Professor Goitom Abraham and has not been presented
anywhere for any award. The report was written basing on the findings and information
collected about the study of an assessment of the factors influencing inventory control.
SIGNED
DATE
52
Approval
This is to certify that the study on “an assessment of the factors influencing inventory
control” was carried out under my supervision as a University supervisor.
SIGNED
DATE...
SUPERVISER:
53
This work is licensed under a
Creative Commons
Attribution - Noncommercial - NoDerivs 4.0 License.
To view a copy of the license please see:

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
This is a download from the BLDS Digital Library on OpenDocs

http://opendocs.ids.ac.uk/opendocs/
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ST MARY’S UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FACTORS INFLUENCING

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

A THESIS SUBMITTED TO ST.MARY’S UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES, IN PARTIAL

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FACTORS INFLUENCING INVENTORY

BY: DANIEL DEMISSIE

APPROVED BY BOARD OF EXAMINERS

Dean, Graduate studies Signature and Date

Advisor Signature and Date

External Examiner Signature and Date

Internal Examiner Signature and Date

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVATIONS......................................................................... ii

LIST OF TABLES......................................................................................................................... iii

LIST OF FIGURES....................................................................................................................... iii

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION............................................................................................. 1

1.1 Back ground of the Study....................................................................................................... 1

2.1 Definition of Inventory........................................................................................................... 6

3.1 Research Design................................................................................................................... 17

4.1 Response Rate...................................................................................................................... 21

5.1 Summary of the Major Findings.......................................................................................... 41

EOQ Economic Order Quantity

GIA Global International Audit

ISA International Standard of Auditing

JIT Just in Time

SCD Supply Chain & Distribution

SPSS Statistical Package for Social Sciences

PSI/Et Population Services International Ethiopia

Table 3.1 Sample size determination of the study..............................................................18

Figure 2.1 what costs go into inventory carrying costs?.................................................. 11

Figure 4.5 Insurance to inventory items............................................................................27

Figure 4.11 Frequency of review inventory records and reports.......................................32

Figure 4.15 Nature of inventory record system................................................................ 35

Figure 4.17 Frequency of inventory record update...........................................................36

Figure 4.22 Staff skill and experience affects inventory control.......................................40

Key words: Assessment, effectiveness, inventory, inventory control, bureaucracy, carrying

1.1 Back ground of the Study

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Auditors from Global International Auditing (GIA) of Population Services International,

1.3 Research Questions

i) What is the effect of long bureaucratic procurement procedure to the effectiveness of

v) What is the effect of staff skill to the effectiveness of inventory control?

1.4 Objectives of the study

The study has general and specific objectives.

1.4.1 General objective of the study

Considering the strategic importance of inventory to the effective operations of an

Specifically, the objectives of the study are:

i) To evaluate the effects of procurement procedure to the effectiveness of inventory

1.5 Significance of the Study

1.7 Organization of the Study

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Definition of Inventory

2.2 Inventory Management

(Coyle et al., 2003) define Inventory management as the management of materials in

2.3 Inventory Control

Inventory control aims at providing the following information to the business