Which term describes the practice of classifying items into A, B, and C categories based on annual dollar volume and usage, where A items are few but contribute most of the value?

• A. ABC classification
• B. Advance ship notice (ASN)
• C. Andon
• D. Anticipation inventories

Answer: (A)

ABC classification is a method for prioritizing inventory by value, grouping items into A, B, and C categories based on their annual dollar value (often with usage considered). The idea comes from the Pareto principle: a small set of items drives most of the total value. A items are few in number but contribute the majority of annual dollar value, so they receive the tightest controls, more accurate forecasting, and closer monitoring. B items are of intermediate importance and receive moderate attention, while C items are many in number yet contribute relatively little value, allowing looser controls and simpler handling. This approach helps allocate planning and supervisory effort where it matters most, ensuring critical items are managed carefully without overinvesting in low-value ones. The other terms refer to different concepts: one is a notice about shipments, another is a signaling mechanism in production, and the last is building stock in advance of demand; none describe classifying items by value the way ABC analysis does.