Past Awards
1984
Franz Edelman Award:
Winner(s)
Winning material:
Blue Bell Trims its Inventory
Citation:
Within 21 months Blue Bell reduced its inventory by more than 31 percent, from 371 to 256 million dollars, with no decrease in sales or services by applying management science models. A combination of innovative problem solving and enthusiastic management support ensured success. Many of the models are standard, but a new marker design and selection model makes the systems approach practical. Management paid close attention to systems development and provided resources that enhanced the effectiveness of the project.