Triple Creek Hardware Store currently uses a periodic inventory system. Kevin Carlton, the owner, is considering the purchase of a computer system that would make it feasible to switch to a perpetual inventory system.
Kevin is unhappy with the periodic inventory system because it does not provide timely information on inventory levels. Kevin has noticed on several occasions that the store runs out of good-selling items, while too many poor-selling items are on hand.
Kevin is also concerned about lost sales while a physical inventory is being taken. Triple Creek Hardware currently takes a physical inventory twice a year. To minimize distractions, the store is closed on the day inventory is taken. Kevin believes that closing the store is the only way to get an accurate inventory count.
Will switching to a perpetual inventory system strengthen Triple Creek Hardware’s control over inventory items? Will switching to a perpetual inventory system eliminate the need for a physical inventory count? Explain.
Answer:
Switching to a perpetual inventory system will strengthen Triple Creek Hardware’s internal controls over inventory because the store managers will be able to keep track of how much of each item is on hand. This should minimize shortages of
good-selling items and excess inventories of poor-selling items.
On the other hand, switching to a perpetual inventory system will not eliminate the need to take a physical inventory count. A physical inventory must be taken to verify the accuracy of the inventory records in a perpetual inventory system. In addition, a physical inventory count is needed to detect shortages of inventory due to damage or theft.