DRP
DRP (Distribution Requirements Planning) is a business planning system that helps companies manage their product distribution more efficiently. Think of it as a smart planning tool that figures out what products need to be where and when, helping to keep the right amount of inventory in warehouses and stores. It's like having a detailed schedule that coordinates moving products from manufacturers to different locations while avoiding having too much or too little stock. Similar systems include Demand Planning or Inventory Optimization tools. Companies use DRP to save money on storage costs and make sure products are available when customers want them.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented DRP system resulting in 30% reduction in inventory costs
Managed regional Distribution Requirements Planning operations for 12 warehouses
Led team responsible for DRP software implementation and staff training
Typical job title: "Distribution Planners"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Distribution Planners
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where actual demand significantly differs from forecasted demand?
Expected Answer: A senior planner should discuss creating contingency plans, adjusting safety stock levels, coordinating with suppliers and transportation teams, and using data analysis to understand the cause of the variance.
Q: What strategies have you implemented to reduce distribution costs while maintaining service levels?
Expected Answer: Should explain practical examples of optimizing warehouse locations, improving inventory turns, negotiating carrier rates, and using technology to improve efficiency.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you determine appropriate safety stock levels across different locations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss factors like lead time, demand variability, service level targets, and seasonal patterns that influence safety stock decisions.
Q: Explain how you would coordinate DRP with other business functions like purchasing and sales?
Expected Answer: Should describe communication processes, shared planning meetings, and how to balance different department needs while maintaining efficient distribution.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a DRP system?
Expected Answer: Should mention inventory tracking, demand forecasting, order scheduling, and basic reporting capabilities.
Q: How do you calculate basic inventory requirements?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain simple calculations for order quantities, reorder points, and lead times.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic inventory management concepts
- Understanding of supply chain terminology
- Experience with spreadsheets and basic reporting
- Familiarity with warehouse operations
Mid (2-5 years)
- DRP software system operation
- Inventory optimization techniques
- Demand forecasting
- Transportation planning
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic distribution network planning
- Multi-site coordination
- Budget management
- Team leadership and project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic inventory management principles
- Lack of experience with distribution planning software
- Poor analytical or problem-solving skills
- No knowledge of transportation and warehousing operations
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Remote Hiring Playbook: Building High-Performing Distributed Teams
Cutting HR Costs Without Sacrificing Quality: A How-To for Savvy Executives
Stop the Turnover Epidemic: Proven Tactics Every HR Leader Must Know
