INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue VIII, August 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 158
The given regression model explores the relationship between inventory optimization and operational performance in FMCG firms.
The correlation coefficient (R) of 0.752 indicates a strong positive relationship between these two variables. This suggests that as
inventory optimization improves, operational performance tends to improve as well.
The R square (R²) value of 0.565 means that 56.5% of the variation in operational performance can be explained by inventory
optimization. While this is a significant portion, it also implies that there are other factors not included in the model that contribute
to operational performance. The Adjusted R square of 0.556 slightly reduces the R² value to account for the number of predictors
in the model, ensuring that the model isn’t overfitting. This indicates that after adjusting for model complexity, inventory
optimization still explains a substantial portion of the variation in operational performance.
Lastly, the Standard Error of the Estimate is 0.610, which represents the average deviation of the actual performance from the
predicted values. This suggests a moderate level of prediction error, meaning that while the model provides useful insights, there is
still some room for improvement in its accuracy. Overall, the model indicates a strong link between inventory optimization and
operational performance but acknowledges that other factors may also play a role.
V. Conclusion
The study findings revealed that inventory forecasting plays a crucial role in operational efficiency within fast-moving consumer
goods manufacturing firms. A majority of respondents expressed confidence in the adoption of appropriate forecasting techniques
within their organizations, with a high mean score reflecting strong agreement. This suggests that firms are making significant
efforts to implement accurate forecasting methods to minimize stockouts and overstock scenarios. Nevertheless, despite the overall
positive perception, some respondents raised concerns regarding the accuracy of inventory forecasting. The relatively lower mean
score on forecast precision indicates lingering uncertainties, likely due to the unpredictable nature of consumer demand. This
highlights a need for continuous improvement in forecasting accuracy to address demand fluctuations effectively.
Further, respondents acknowledged the positive effect of demand forecasting on inventory optimization, particularly in managing
stock levels and reducing discrepancies. Nonetheless, the results also pointed out a gap in forecasting techniques’ responsiveness
to sudden demand changes and seasonal variations. The results are in line with Bayraktar et al., (2020) who assessed supply chain
performance where they did a causal analysis and the findings indicated that retailers were influenced by seasonality and trends in
inventory forecasting. Lower mean scores in these areas suggested that current forecasting methods may not be adequately adaptive
to dynamic market conditions.
Inventory visibility emerged as an essential component of effective inventory management, significantly influencing operational
performance. The study revealed mixed perceptions regarding the effectiveness of technology integration into inventory
optimization systems. Although some respondents acknowledged the presence of inventory tracking systems, the relatively
moderate mean score indicates that there is room for improvement in leveraging technology to its full potential. Especially, the low
mean score for automated alerts and notifications signals a gap in proactive inventory management practices. Automation remains
a vital element in minimizing human error and ensuring timely responses when stock levels reach critical points.
Despite the results, there is room for further studies. There is an opportunity to look beyond inventory optimization and examine
additional factors that could influence performance. Variables like technological advancements or collaborative supply chain
practices might also play a significant role. By considering these aspects, future research could develop a more comprehensive view
of what truly drives performance improvements.
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