Automated purchasing: Forecasts to determine stock levels and print orders.

An automated purchasing system to optimize inventory levels of frozen foods, including meat items, while minimizing stock outages, was developed and implemented. Menu item forecast data were coordinated with on-hand quantities to automate the calculation of order quantities and printing purchase requisitions. The model selected also incorporated: (a) Safety stock level, (b) accumulated forecasts, and (c) accumulated orders already placed. The project was smoothly integrated into an on-going computer-assisted management system. All programs functioned as planned; computer documents were complete and accurate. The system design was retained for use in the foodservice operation.