Modified (Q, r) Model for Discrete Demand

In the continuous review (Q, r) model one continuously monitors inventory level and places a replenishment order when the inventory position reaches the reorder point. In many business practices, however, inventory decreases in a discrete fashion. As a result, replenishment orders are usually placed after the inventory position gets far below the reorder point. This makes a chance of shortage more likely and the service level lower than designed. Such a discrepancy can be compensated for by raising the reorder point to some extent. The question is how much the reorder point should be raised in order to compensate for a potential shortage. In this study, we present experimental analyses for this question. Regression models are also proposed for on-site use.