Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of rough-cut capacity planning?

1. To convert sales forecasts into production schedules

2. To convert the master production schedule into requirements for key resources

3. To evaluate supplier performance

4. To forecast long-term market demand

The correct answer is: To convert the master production schedule into requirements for key resources

Rough-cut capacity planning serves a vital role in translating a master production schedule into resource requirements, particularly for key resources such as labor, equipment, and materials. This process involves assessing whether the planned production output aligns with the available capacity of these resources. By identifying any potential shortfalls in capacity early in the planning process, organizations can take corrective actions, such as adjusting the production schedule, reallocating resources, or negotiating with suppliers to ensure that they can meet their production goals. This approach allows for a more informed decision-making process and ultimately helps in minimizing disruptions in production. Ensuring that the necessary resources are available to meet the demands outlined in the master production schedule is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and meeting customer expectations effectively. While the other choices touch on different aspects of supply chain management, they do not specifically address the core focus of rough-cut capacity planning, which is primarily about aligning production schedules with resource availability.