There is nothing that can put more money to the bottom line faster than a first rate inventory con-trol process matched with a great integrated distribution management system. Nothing can grow out of control faster than inventory control and distribution systems. So what is the answer? In-ventory control has to be designed into your operations, not bolted on or thought about after the fact. The most successful inventory control systems are designed directly with suppliers, many times going 2 and 3 levels into the supply chain. Distribution channels work best when they are finely tuned between supplier and distributor. And don't let anyone tell you that conflicting pri-orities can't be aligned with effort and clear focus from both sides. Business is about overcoming conflicting priorities and ensuring mutual benefits. Inventory control is a great test between cus-tomer service, manufacturing scheduling and inventory carrying costs. Many companies never address the conflicting issues and never achieve the maximum benefits from their efforts.