Analysis of the critical factors that influence inventory management in SMEs (Pharmaceutical Sector) Santo Domingo, 2023 Análisis de los factores críticos que influyen en la gestión de inventarios en las PYMES (Sector Farmacéutico) Santo Domingo, 2023

Abstract

Inventory management plays a fundamental role in the operations of commercial and industrial entities, since its main purpose is to simplify and streamline administration. In this context, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the pharmaceutical sector represent a solid support network, providing personalized attention services to clients from a fundamental health structure. However, pharmaceutical companies face significant challenges when it comes to inventory management, such as the lack of technical processes and the absence of adequate systems to control inventory. It is precisely for these reasons that this research was carried out. Its main objective was to provide a substantial contribution to the field of inventory management in the pharmaceutical sector, through the analysis of the critical factors that influence pharmaceutical SMEs in Santo Domingo. To achieve this purpose, a qualitative research approach was adopted, since it was necessary to understand the current situation that the pharmaceutical sector is going through in the province. Obtaining this information was carried out by applying surveys to those responsible for these pharmaceutical establishments and carrying out observations in them. The results obtained during the investigation revealed that pharmaceutical SMEs do not have a structured process for inventory management. Consequently, as part of a proposal to address this problem, a standardized process was developed based on ISO 9001 standards, with the purpose of contributing to the improvement of inventory management in this sector.