Question 1

In a lean environment, one uses material requirements planning (MRP) processing primarily to:

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: In a lean environment, one uses material requirements planning (MRP) processing primarily to create plans to share with suppliers. MRP is a software-based system that calculates the quantity and timing of materials needed for production, based on the master production schedule, the bill of materials, and the inventory status. MRP helps to coordinate the flow of materials from suppliers to the production process, reducing waste and inventory costs. MRP can also generate purchase orders, work orders, and other documents to communicate the plans with suppliers and internal departments. MRP does not calculate average daily demand, which is a measure of the average amount of a product or service that is sold or consumed per day. MRP does not determine the kanban circuit locations, which are the physical places where kanban cards or containers are exchanged between processes in a pull system. MRP does not determine where to use supermarkets, which are locations where a small amount of inventory is kept to buffer against fluctuations in demand or supply. Reference: CPIM Exam Content Manual Version 7.0, Domain 4: Plan and Manage Supply, Section 4.1: Supply Planning Concepts, p. 24; Lean MRP; Manufacturing resource planning.

Question 2

Up-to-date information about production order status is required to do which of the following tasks?

Accepted Answer

D

Explanation: Up-to-date information about production order status is required to calculate the cost of work in process (WIP). WIP is the inventory of unfinished goods or partially completed products that are still in the production process1. The cost of WIP is the sum of the costs of the materials, labor, and overhead that have been incurred in the production process but have not yet been transferred to the finished goods inventory2. To calculate the cost of WIP, we need to know how much of each production order has been completed and how much remains to be done. This information can be obtained from the production order status, which is a report that shows the current status of each production order in terms of its quantity, start date, end date, completion percentage, and variance3. By using the production order status, we can determine the amount of WIP for each production order and for the entire production process. This can help us monitor and control the production efficiency, profitability, and quality4. Reference: 1: Work In Progress (WIP) Definition 2 2: Work-in-Process (WIP) Accounting 3 3: Production Order Status Report 5 4: How to Calculate Work in Process Inventory 6

Question 3

The results from responding to uncertainty in the supply chain by exaggerating lead times and increasing lot sizes is called:

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: The results from responding to uncertainty in the supply chain by exaggerating lead times and increasing lot sizes is called the bullwhip effect. The bullwhip effect is a phenomenon that occurs when small changes in demand at the downstream end of the supply chain (such as retailers or customers) cause larger and larger fluctuations in demand at the upstream end of the supply chain (such as wholesalers, distributors, or manufacturers). The bullwhip effect can create inefficiencies, waste, and costs in the supply chain, as well as reduce customer satisfaction and profitability. One of the causes of the bullwhip effect is the response to uncertainty in the supply chain by exaggerating lead times and increasing lot sizes. Lead time is the time between placing an order and receiving it from a supplier. Lot size is the quantity of units ordered or produced at a time. When there is uncertainty or variability in demand or supply, such as due to seasonality, promotions, disruptions, or forecasting errors, some supply chain members may try to cope by exaggerating lead times and increasing lot sizes. For example, a retailer may increase its safety stock or reorder point to avoid stockouts or delays, or a manufacturer may produce more than needed to take advantage of economies of scale or discounts. However, these actions can have unintended consequences, as they can distort the demand information and amplify the demand variability along the supply chain. This can result in excess inventory, low inventory turnover, high holding costs, poor service levels, lost sales, obsolete products, or capacity issues. To prevent or reduce the bullwhip effect caused by responding to uncertainty in the supply chain by exaggerating lead times and increasing lot sizes, some possible solutions are: Improving communication and collaboration among supply chain members to share accurate and timely demand information and forecasts. Reducing lead times and lot sizes by using lean production techniques, just-in-time inventory systems, or quick response methods. Implementing vendor-managed inventory (VMI) systems, where suppliers are responsible for managing and replenishing the inventory of their customers based on their actual consumption data. Adopting advanced technologies, such as radio-frequency identification (RFID), artificial intelligence (AI), or blockchain, to enhance visibility, traceability, and coordination in the supply chain. Reference := Bullwhip Effect: Meaning, Example, Impact - Investopedia, Bullwhip Effect - What Is It, Causes, Supply Chain, Examples, Bullwhip Effect: Example, Causes, and Impact on Supply Chain

Question 4

The capacity requirements plan is used primarily to:

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: The capacity requirements plan is used primarily to balance capacity and load at work centers. A work center is a location where one or more resources perform a specific operation or a group of operations. Capacity is the amount of time or output that a work center can offer for production activities. Load is the amount of time or output that a work center is required to produce based on the planned production schedule. Balancing capacity and load means matching the available capacity with the required load, so that there is no excess or shortage of capacity at any work center. The capacity requirements plan is a report that shows the projected load and capacity of each work center over a planning horizon. It is derived from the master production schedule (MPS), which specifies the quantity and timing of finished goods to be produced, and the bill of materials (BOM), which specifies the components and materials needed for each finished good. The capacity requirements plan also uses the routing file, which specifies the sequence of operations and work centers required for each finished good, and the work center file, which specifies the capacity and availability of each work center. The capacity requirements plan can help to identify any gaps or surpluses in capacity at each work center and to take corrective actions, such as revising the MPS, rescheduling operations, adding or reducing resources, or outsourcing production. The other options are not the primary uses of the capacity requirements plan. Calculating the level of available capacity is an input to the capacity requirements plan, not an output. The level of available capacity is determined by the work center file, which contains information such as shifts, hours, efficiency, utilization, and maintenance of each work center. Determining the overall product load profile is not a use of the capacity requirements plan, as it does not consider the product mix or demand variability. The overall product load profile is a general estimate of the total production volume or demand over a period of time. Determining the priority of orders is not a use of the capacity requirements plan, as it does not consider the due dates or urgency of orders. The priority of orders is determined by using priority rules or dispatching methods, such as first-come-first-served (FCFS), shortest processing time (SPT), earliest due date (EDD), or critical ratio (CR). Reference := Capacity Requirements Planning (CRP): Definition and Procedures, Capacity Requirements Planning (CRP Plan and Strategies) - ERP Information, Definition of Capacity Requirements Planning (CRP) - Gartner …

Question 5

Which of the following outcomes is a benefit of mixed-model scheduling?

Accepted Answer

B

Explanation: Mixed-model scheduling is a production technique that allows for the simultaneous production of different products or features on the same production line or system. Mixed-model scheduling can help reduce lead times, inventory levels, setup times, and material shortages by increasing the flexibility and responsiveness of the production process. One of the benefits of mixed-model scheduling is improved demand response, which means the ability to meet customer demand without delay or stockout. Improved demand response can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, as well as reduce the need for safety stock or buffer inventory. By using mixed-model scheduling, a company can produce products or features according to the actual or forecasted customer demand, rather than producing large batches of standardized products or features. This can help avoid overproduction or underproduction, which can result in excess inventory or lost sales. Mixed-model scheduling can also help adjust the production output quickly and easily when there are changes or fluctuations in demand, by using flexible automation, lean production techniques, or quick response methods. The other options are not benefits of mixed-model scheduling. Increased inventory is not a benefit of mixed-model scheduling, but rather a drawback. Increased inventory can increase inventory costs, such as holding costs, transportation costs, or obsolescence costs. It can also reduce inventory visibility and control, as well as increase the risk of quality issues or spoilage. Mixed-model scheduling can help reduce inventory by producing products or features in small batches or single units that match customer demand. Fewer setups are not a benefit of mixed-model scheduling, but rather a requirement. Fewer setups mean less time and resources spent on changing or adjusting the production system to produce different products or features. Fewer setups can increase the efficiency and productivity of the production process, as well as reduce the setup costs and waste. Mixed-model scheduling requires fewer setups to enable the simultaneous production of different products or features on the same production line or system. Fewer material shortages are not a benefit of mixed-model scheduling, but rather an outcome. Fewer material shortages mean less disruption or delay in the production process due to the lack of materials or components needed for production. Fewer material shortages can improve the quality and reliability of the production process, as well as reduce the material costs and waste. Mixed-model scheduling can result in fewer material shortages by reducing the lead times and inventory levels of materials or components, as well as by improving the communication and coordination with suppliers. Reference := Mixed Model Scheduling - Mountain Home Academy, Reduce Lot Sizes, Mixed Model Scheduling - Academic library, Introduction To Mixed Model Production …{Strategos}

Question 6

Which of the following tools is used to evaluate the impact that a production plan has on capacity?

Accepted Answer

B

Explanation: A bill of resources is a tool that is used to evaluate the impact that a production plan has on capacity. A bill of resources is a document that lists the required resources, such as machines, labor, materials, and space, for each product or service in the production plan1. A bill of resources can help estimate the total capacity requirements for the production plan, as well as the capacity utilization and availability for each resource2. A bill of resources can also help identify potential capacity gaps, bottlenecks, or excesses, and evaluate alternative production plans or resource allocations3. A bill of resources can be created by using the following steps4: Step 1: Identify the products or services in the production plan and their quantities and timings. Step 2: Identify the resources needed for each product or service and their quantities and timings. This can be done by using tools such as product routings, process maps, or work breakdown structures. Step 3: Aggregate the resource requirements for each product or service and for the entire production plan. This can be done by using tools such as spreadsheets, tables, or charts. Step 4: Compare the resource requirements with the resource capacities and availability. This can be done by using tools such as capacity planning matrices, load profiles, or resource histograms. Step 5: Analyze the results and make adjustments or recommendations. This can be done by using tools such as what-if analysis, simulation, or optimization. Therefore, a bill of resources is a tool that is used to evaluate the impact that a production plan has on capacity. Reference: 1: Bill of Resources Definition 1 2: Capacity Planning Definition 2 3: Capacity Planning Tools 3 4: How to Create a Bill of Resources 4

Question 7

The demonstrated capacity of equipment in a process flow is $1,200 per day. Due to a malfunction in
a feeder line, utilization
of the equipment is reduced by 25% on Day 6. If the efficiency remains unchanged at 110%, what
would the output be on Day 6?

Accepted Answer

D

Explanation: The output of the equipment on Day 6 can be calculated by multiplying the demonstrated capacity, the utilization, and the efficiency. The demonstrated capacity is given as $1,200 per day. The utilization is the ratio of the actual time that the equipment is used to the available time that it could be used. Since the utilization is reduced by 25% on Day 6, it means that the equipment is used for 75% of the available time. Therefore, the utilization is 0.75. The efficiency is the ratio of the actual output to the standard output. It is given as 110%, which means that the equipment produces 10% more than the standard output. Therefore, the efficiency is 1.1. The output on Day 6 can be found by multiplying these three factors: Output = Demonstrated capacity x Utilization x Efficiency Output = $1,200 x 0.75 x 1.1 Output = $990 Therefore, the output on Day 6 is $990. Reference: CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, Version 7.0, Domain 6: Plan, Manage, and Execute Detailed Schedules, Section A: Detailed Capacity Planning and Scheduling, Subsection 2: Capacity Management Concepts and Calculations, p. 37-38.

Question 8

A balanced scorecard is a performance measurement approach that involves:

Accepted Answer

D

Explanation: A balanced scorecard is a performance measurement approach that involves linking financial and non-financial performance measures to organizational goals. According to the web search results, a balanced scorecard is a strategic planning and management system that organizations use to communicate what they are trying to accomplish, align the day-to-day work with strategy, prioritize projects, products, and services, and measure and monitor progress towards strategic targets1. A balanced scorecard focuses on four key perspectives: financial, customer, internal business process, and learning and growth2. Each perspective includes objectives, measures, targets, and initiatives that are aligned with the organization’s vision, mission, and strategy3. By using a balanced scorecard, organizations can balance the short-term and long-term objectives, the financial and non-financial outcomes, and the internal and external stakeholders.

Question 9

To facilitate transportation efficiency and inventory management, companies frequently use:

Accepted Answer

C

Explanation: Standardized containers are containers that have uniform dimensions and specifications, such as pallets, crates, boxes, etc. Standardized containers can facilitate transportation efficiency and inventory management by reducing the handling time, increasing the loading capacity, improving the space utilization, and simplifying the packaging and labeling processes. Standardized containers can also enable the use of automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS) and other technologies that require consistent dimensions and weights of the items. Reference: CPIM Part 2 Exam Content Manual, Domain 7: Plan and Manage Distribution, Section 7.1: Distribution Network Design, p. 38.

Question 10

Increased use of third-party logistics (3PL) services is likely to have which of the following effects on a firm's balance sheet?

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: Third-party logistics (3PL) services are services that involve outsourcing some or all of the logistics functions of a firm, such as transportation, warehousing, distribution, or order fulfillment, to an external provider1. By using 3PL services, a firm can reduce its need to own and operate its own logistics assets, such as trucks, trailers, warehouses, or inventory management systems. These assets are classified as fixed assets on the balance sheet, because they are long-term and tangible assets that are used in the normal course of business2. Therefore, increased use of 3PL services is likely to have the effect of decreasing the fixed assets on a firm’s balance sheet. The other options are not likely effects of increased use of 3PL services on a firm’s balance sheet. Retained earnings are the accumulated net income of a firm that is not distributed to shareholders as dividends3. Retained earnings are not directly affected by the use of 3PL services, unless the firm’s net income changes as a result of cost savings or revenue growth from outsourcing logistics functions. Accounts receivable are the amounts owed to a firm by its customers for goods or services delivered on credit4. Accounts receivable are not directly affected by the use of 3PL services, unless the firm’s sales volume or credit terms change as a result of improved customer service or delivery performance from outsourcing logistics functions. Intangible assets are non-physical assets that have value based on their intellectual or legal rights, such as patents, trademarks, goodwill, or brand names5. Intangible assets are not directly affected by the use of 3PL services, unless the firm’s reputation or market position changes as a result of enhanced quality or innovation from outsourcing logistics functions. Reference: What Is Third Party Logistics (3PL) ? | Definition, Types, Benefits Fixed Asset - Definition & Examples (Assets = Liabilities + Equity) Retained Earnings - Definition & Formula Accounts Receivable - Overview, Examples & Importance Intangible Asset - Definition & Examples

Question 11

Which of the following priority rules is most consistent with the objective of meeting due dates?

Accepted Answer

D

Explanation: The priority rule that is most consistent with the objective of meeting due dates is slack time per operation. Slack time per operation is a priority rule that assigns a priority index to each job based on the ratio of the remaining slack time to the remaining number of operations. Slack time is the difference between the due date and the expected completion time of a job. A lower ratio means a higher priority, as it indicates that the job has less slack time per operation and is more likely to be late. Slack time per operation is a dynamic priority rule, as it updates the priority index after each operation is completed. Slack time per operation can help minimize the number of tardy jobs and the average tardiness of jobs, as it gives preference to the jobs that are closer to their due dates and have more operations left. First-come-first-served (FCFS) is not a priority rule that is consistent with the objective of meeting due dates. FCFS is a priority rule that processes jobs in the order of their arrival or release times. FCFS is a simple and fair rule, but it ignores the processing times and due dates of jobs. FCFS can result in poor due date performance, as it can delay urgent or short jobs behind long or non-urgent jobs. Shortest processing time (SPT) is not a priority rule that is consistent with the objective of meeting due dates. SPT is a priority rule that processes jobs in ascending order of their processing times. SPT is an effective rule for minimizing the average flow time and work-in-process inventory of jobs, as it clears out small jobs quickly and reduces congestion in the system. However, SPT does not consider the due dates of jobs, and it can make long or urgent jobs late. Fewest operations remaining is not a priority rule that is consistent with the objective of meeting due dates. Fewest operations remaining is a priority rule that processes jobs in ascending order of their remaining number of operations. Fewest operations remaining is a rule that can reduce the variability and complexity of jobs, as it tends to complete jobs faster and reduce their flow times. However, fewest operations remaining does not take into account the slack times or due dates of jobs, and it can make urgent or short jobs late. Reference := Priority Rules - Tripod, Dispatching rules - Oxford Reference, Sequencing Rules and Due- Date Assignments in a Job Shop - JSTOR

Question 12

Substituting capital equipment in place of direct labor can be economically justified for which of the following scenarios?

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: Substituting capital equipment in place of direct labor can be economically justified for the scenario where volumes are forecasted to increase. This is because capital equipment can provide higher productivity, efficiency, and quality than direct labor, especially when the demand for the product or service is high or growing. Capital equipment can also reduce the labor costs, such as wages, benefits, training, and turnover, that are associated with direct labor12. Therefore, investing in capital equipment can lower the unit cost and increase the profit margin of the product or service, as well as improve the customer satisfaction and loyalty. The other scenarios are not likely to justify substituting capital equipment in place of direct labor, because they are either irrelevant or ineffective. Material prices are forecasted to increase (B) is a factor that affects the cost of inputs, not outputs. Substituting capital equipment in place of direct labor may not reduce the material costs, unless the capital equipment can use less or cheaper materials than direct labor. Implementing a pull system in production © is a method of managing inventory and production based on actual customer demand, rather than forecasts. Substituting capital equipment in place of direct labor may not facilitate the implementation of a pull system, unless the capital equipment can provide more flexibility and responsiveness than direct labor. Functional layouts are being utilized (D) is a way of arranging the production facilities according to the type of operation or function performed. Substituting capital equipment in place of direct labor may not improve the performance or efficiency of a functional layout, unless the capital equipment can reduce the setup time or transportation cost between different functions. Reference: Make-or-Buy Decision - Definition & Examples | Marketing Tutor Make-or-Buy Decision - Overview, How It Works, Triggers Make or Buy Decision - Definition & Examples | Marketing Tutor Make or Buy Decision - What Is It, Examples, Factors, Advantages

Question 13

The benefits of standardized work include:

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: Standardized work is a method of organizing work processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety1. One of the benefits of standardized work is consistent cycle time, which is the time it takes to complete a task or a process. By standardizing the work sequence, the takt time, and the standard inventory, standardized work reduces the variability and unpredictability of the work flow, and ensures that each task or process is performed in a consistent and optimal manner2. Consistent cycle time can lead to other benefits, such as improved customer satisfaction, reduced waste, increased productivity, and enhanced quality3. Reference: Standardized Work: What Is It and Where Is It Used? - TWI Institute What is Standard Work: Benefits & Applications | SafetyCulture Standard Work: The Foundation for Kaizen - Lean Smarts

Question 14

An effective process to create meaningful change begins with:

Accepted Answer

B

Explanation: An effective process to create meaningful change begins with identifying and discussing a past crisis, a potential crisis, or major opportunities. This step is important because it helps to create a sense of urgency and motivation for the change, as well as to clarify the vision and goals of the change1. A past crisis can be used as a learning opportunity to analyze what went wrong and how to prevent it from happening again. A potential crisis can be used as a warning signal to anticipate and prepare for the possible challenges and risks. A major opportunity can be used as a catalyst to seize the competitive advantage and create value for the organization and its stakeholders2. The other options are not the best ways to start an effective process to create meaningful change. Reviewing financial outcomes and metrics over the last 4 quarters year-over-year may provide some insights into the performance and profitability of the organization, but it may not reveal the underlying causes or drivers of the change, or the future trends and scenarios that may affect the organization3. Refreshing corporate strategy to align with current marketplace realities for your industry may be a necessary step in the change process, but it may not be sufficient to generate buy-in and commitment from the people who are involved in or affected by the change4. Using consultants to provide in-depth analysis of current management opportunities may be a helpful way to obtain external perspectives and expertise, but it may not ensure that the change is aligned with the organization’s culture, values, and capabilities5. Reference : How To Create A Sense Of Urgency For Change; How To Use Crisis As A Catalyst For Change; Why Financial Metrics Alone Won’t Drive Change; How To Align Your Strategy With Your Organization’s Culture; How To Choose The Right Consultant For Your Change Project.

Question 15

Given the information below, reducing which measure by 10% would contribute most to shortening the cash-to-cash cycle time?

Accepted Answer

A

Explanation: The cash-to-cash cycle time is a financial metric that measures the time it takes for a company to convert its cash outflows into cash inflows. The cash-to-cash cycle time is calculated by adding the days of inventory outstanding (DIO), the days of sales outstanding (DSO), and the days of payables outstanding (DPO), and then subtracting the days of payables deferred (DPD). The cash-to-cash cycle time can be shortened by reducing any of the components, except for DPD, which should be increased. Reducing which measure by 10% would contribute most to shortening the cash-to-cash cycle time depends on the relative values of each component. However, given the information below, reducing accounts receivable by 10% would have the greatest impact. https://kxbjsyuhceggsyvxdkof.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/file-images/APICS_CPIM-Part-2/page_61_img_1.jpg The current cash-to-cash cycle time is: Cash-to-cash cycle time = DIO + DSO + DPO - DPD = 60 + 90 + 30 - 15 = 165 days If accounts receivable is reduced by 10%, then DSO becomes 81 days (90 x 0.9). The new cash-to-cash cycle time is: Cash-to-cash cycle time = DIO + DSO + DPO - DPD = 60 + 81 + 30 - 15 = 156 days The difference is 9 days, which is the largest reduction among all the measures. If inventory value is reduced by 10%, then DIO becomes 54 days (60 x 0.9). The new cash-to-cash cycle time is: Cash-to-cash cycle time = DIO + DSO + DPO - DPD = 54 + 90 + 30 - 15 = 159 days The difference is 6 days, which is smaller than reducing accounts receivable. If accounts payable is reduced by 10%, then DPO becomes 27 days (30 x 0.9). The new cash-to-cash cycle time is: Cash-to-cash cycle time = DIO + DSO + DPO - DPD = 60 + 90 + 27 - 15 = 162 days The difference is 3 days, which is smaller than reducing accounts receivable and inventory value. If cost of capital is reduced by 10%, then it has no direct effect on the cash-to-cash cycle time, as it is not a component of the formula. However, it may affect the profitability and liquidity of the company indirectly. Therefore, reducing accounts receivable by 10% would contribute most to shortening the cash-to- cash cycle time, given the information below. Reference: CPIM Exam Content Manual Version 7.0, Domain 4: Plan and Manage Supply, Section 4.2: Implement Supply Plans, Subsection 4.2.3: Describe how to implement financial management techniques (page 40).

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