Managing activities across the value chain represents a comprehensive integrated approach to the traditional management functions of planning and control. Eliminating non-value-added activities from the chain is central to this strategic approach to cost management.

Smith Corporation is considering the implementation of a JIT inventory system. The company recently analyzed its cycle time to determine the average number of days spent in each activity of its production process. Use the summary of the analysis shown below to answer the included questions in a response of  2-3 pages: