INTE Exam Dumps : Supply Management Integration

The absolute value of the forecast error is calculated as the average of the absolute differences between forecasted and actual demand. Calculating each period: |30-31| + |25-31| + |28-26| + |25-20| = 1 + 6 + 2 + 5 = 14. Therefore, the absolute value of the forecast error is 14. Reference: Demand forecasting and error measurement techniques.

Highlighting the risks of excess inventory and financial obligations due to optimistic forecasts is a compelling argument. It addresses financial impacts and supply chain efficiency, which are critical for decision-making in product launches. By presenting potential negative outcomes, the supply manager can influence the team to adopt more realistic projections. This approach is backed by supply chain risk management literature that emphasizes forecasting accuracy and inventory control.

Option B's process flow indicates that the final inventory (triangle) occurs after the second processing stage, suggesting a strategy of delayed differentiation. This approach allows customization or final product adjustments to occur closer to the point of customer delivery, reducing lead time for specific customer requirements and minimizing excess inventory of finished goods. Reference: Lean manufacturing and supply chain strategies.