A conceptual data model to enhance SKU management in food SMEs

Abstract

This paper reports on an action research project (two-cycle approach – problem solving cycle and research cycle) that investigated the role of data management in supporting product variety/Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) management in a food SME (Small and Medium Enterprise). We find that the SME did not view data as a key resource and hence data redundancy and data integrity issues were fundamental problems. Application of a conceptual data model instilled discipline with regard to data management and this resulted in: (1) a change in data management behaviour within the food SME, and (2) the development and deployment of SKU management tools for the food SME.

Keywords:

• SKU management
• conceptual data model
• food SMEs

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful for the support received from the Lauritzson Foundation. An earlier version of this paper was presented to EurOMA 2013; we are grateful to delegates for their comments.