Another issue to be considered is how many communication products to initially print and how frequently to reorder. Many publications warehouses, as they are called, have sophisticated inventory management systems that determine the number of communication products to print and, when stock is running low, prompt a reprint. To hasten the reprinting process, make sure that the printing plates are easily retrieved so the printer can start the job as soon as possible. Last, people managing warehouses with communication products need to deliver them on a timely basis to the people placing orders. The process of filling orders and delivering them to customers is called order fulfillment.
Most warehouses have sophisticated processes for filing orders.
Top Stores Stores are used to distribute the same types of communication products as warehouses printed materials, diskettes, CD-ROMs, videotapes, and audiotapes to general consumers. These products are usually sold in stores, including book stores, software sellers, and computer stores. Like warehouses, stores use sophisticated inventory management systems that suggest how many copies to stock and when to reorder. In addition, distributing communication products through stores poses two unique challenges. Many stores only deal with large distributors who, in turn, only stock the communication products produced by large publishers.