Answer:
Three sub-functions of materials management are procurement, inventory control, and logistics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Procurement:
Definition:
Procurement involves the process of acquiring goods, services, or raw materials from external sources.
Role in Materials Management:
This sub-function focuses on selecting suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring a timely and cost-effective supply of materials needed for production or operations.
Effective procurement contributes to cost control and the availability of quality resources.
Inventory Control:
Definition: Inventory control is the management of stock levels to ensure that optimal quantities of materials are available when needed, without excessive overstock or shortages.
Role in Materials Management:
This sub-function aims to strike a balance between maintaining sufficient inventory to meet demand and minimizing carrying costs. It involves tracking stock levels, reordering when necessary, and implementing strategies to reduce holding costs while preventing stockouts.
Logistics:
Definition: Logistics involves the coordination and management of the movement of materials, products, and information throughout the supply chain.
Role in Materials Management:
Logistics encompasses activities such as transportation, warehousing, distribution, and order fulfillment.
It ensures that materials are efficiently and cost-effectively transported from suppliers to the production facility and then to distribution centers or end-users.
Effective logistics contribute to timely deliveries, reduced lead times, and streamlined supply chain processes.
Thus, Materials management encompasses procurement, inventory control, and logistics.