An inventory profile is the graphical representation of inventory quantity as it changes over time. It provides a visual picture of replenishment and consumption behavior and is particularly important when analyzing cycle inventory. Under steady demand and periodic replenishment, the profile normally resembles a saw-tooth pattern: inventory increases when a replenishment lot arrives and then progressively declines as demand consumes the stock.
The profile allows supply-chain professionals to examine several operating characteristics, including maximum inventory, minimum inventory, average cycle inventory, replenishment frequency, stockout exposure, and the relationship between lot size and carrying cost. When a replenishment quantity of Q is received and inventory is subsequently depleted at a constant rate, the inventory profile provides the visual basis for deriving average cycle inventory as Q/2.
The alternatives “inventory graph” and “inventory drawing” are generic descriptions rather than the established supply-chain term. “Distribution inventory” refers to inventory positioned within the distribution network rather than to a graphical representation.
Therefore, the defined term for a plot depicting inventory levels over time is inventory profile . This terminology is consistent with standard cycle-inventory treatment used in supply-chain planning.
Reference Topic: Inventory Management — Inventory Profiles, Cycle Inventory, and Replenishment Behavior.
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