
Originally Posted by
gjh42
*Don't Panic* </big friendly letters>
Given that attribute stock is coming "soon" (as much as a few months perhaps), I have a few questions for perspective.
Yea I know. But like I said. This is a one man show and Ive already bought my products and have them sitting here so I cant wait for that upgrade.
Then Im worried the upgarde will be a pain..and cause me more time.
This appears to be currently a modest sized business, yes? (Though I'm sure you intend it to become bigger:) Do you have any kind of in-person sales? How many different products/sizes do you expect to have to maintain for the near future?
It is a modest size right now. What I did to test demand for my products was ordered a low quantity of a lot of different styles. I already have about 25 products that come in various sizes. Usually 3 sizes each AT LEAST.
How often do you reorder? At what stock level do you reorder? How much will it cost you in inventory to raise the reorder level vs. the sales gain in having all sizes in stock more consistently? How long does it take to receive an order? (Is it worth expediting shipping or buying smaller quantities at a time to stay in stock?)
I have the capital to reorder. I may get a loan so that helps. I plan to reorder as much as necessary. Even if i need it delivered next day or so.
The big question: How often (per week, say) do you expect to run to the reorder points on all items combined? How often do you expect to run to the reorder point on any single item?
How often do you expect to run out of stock on all items combined? How often do you expect to run out of any single item and have another sale before hiding the size?
Id like to reorder whenever necessary. Im actually pretty open. But id say max 2-3 weeks. I will run out of certain items pretty quickly since for certain shirts im not sure about, I only ordered 1 or 2 initially.]
The upshot of all this is: How often do you reasonably expect to have to write a "shipping delayed" e-mail and how long would you expect to have to delay? Can you deal with the aggregate number of cases for the time until attribute stock becomes available?
I dont want to have to write that email very often. That is why I want something that tells my customers something is sold out. Id rather do that, then have them pay, then send them something slow.
I'm not asking you to post answers; this is just for your reflection.
Good luck and success to you.