Overstressed parts managers need to take a step back

Sometimes managing parts departments can be unpredictable, messy and downright stressful.

As a result, it can be easy to get caught in the cycle of reactivity — operating on an emergency basis with little regard for the big picture, says PartsEdge sales and marketing manager Kaylee Felio. But parts inventory management requires a plan to get out of that reactive zone and into a proactive one, she says.

“Individuals who can step back from the noise and think about their departments and inventories holistically have the ability to get back into the driver’s seat and actually grow and improve the department rather than just getting stuck in the current,” Felio said. “Often, stepping back means leaving more time open and recognizing the bigger needs of the department and focusing on addressing those as opposed to just putting out the fires.”