The EIQ Method

Explains E (Entry: orders), I (Item: items), and Q (Quantity: quantities), which are foundational elements in logistics system design[cite: 4].

Shows the overall picture of the "EIQ Method," which combines and analyzes the three elements of EIQ, as well as the flow of information obtained from analysis[cite: 4].

Outlines the fundamental thought process when performing EIQ analysis and the steps to follow when proceeding with planning[cite: 4].

Illustrates the importance of moving back and forth between macro and micro perspectives while conducting analysis[cite: 4].

The process of using EIQ analysis to derive concrete logistics systems (storage and picking methods)[cite: 4].

The basic structure of an "EIQ Table" (seed-sowing table), representing relationships between orders (E), items (I), and quantities (Q) in a matrix format[cite: 4].

Explains four analytical metrics: EQ (quantity per order), EN (number of lines per order), IQ (quantity per item), and IK (number of orders in which an item appears)[cite: 4].

A representation method that visualizes the relationships among E, I, and Q in a 3D graph to intuitively grasp data bias and trends[cite: 4].

Introduces various data analysis techniques to use depending on the objective, such as ABC analysis (Pareto charts), frequency distribution, and cross-tabulation[cite: 4].

A lesson emphasizing that it is vital not merely to "look at" data, but to "read" the underlying facts and "think about" what actions to take[cite: 4].

Examples of interpreting what biases or gaps in charts and tables signify in terms of actual logistics site events (special sales, stockouts, delivery route imbalances, etc.)[cite: 4].

The core philosophy of EIQ analysis: even for the same "shipping volume of 100 cases," shipping 100 cases to 1 destination versus shipping 1 case to 100 destinations requires completely different systems and workload[cite: 4].

Basics of the technique (Pareto analysis) that sorts items by volume in descending order and categorizes them into three groups (A, B, and C) based on cumulative percentage[cite: 4].

Concrete creation examples of ABC analysis graphs (Pareto charts) and confirmation of the trend readable from them—namely that "a small number of items account for the vast majority of volume"[cite: 4].

A method to determine standard work units or package sizes by analyzing which zones order sizes or item appearance frequencies concentrate in[cite: 4].

Concrete examples of actual frequency distribution graphs (histograms) and IK (number of orders in which an item appears) frequency tables[cite: 4].

A method that classifies shipping forms into Pallet, Case, and Broken (piece), deriving optimal storage and picking methods from their respective proportions[cite: 4].

Cross-tabulated analysis examples showing which form (P, C, or B) is predominant per order (EQ) or per item (IQ)[cite: 4].

Analyzes the volume (line count or quantity) per order (destination) to utilize in selecting packaging material sizes and handling equipment[cite: 4].

Concepts for classifying order trends (patterns) such as "high-variety small-quantity" or "low-variety large-quantity" to design processing lines suitable for each pattern[cite: 4].

Concrete examples of typical order patterns categorized from actual shipping data[cite: 4].

A method combining multiple metrics such as EQ, EN, IQ, and IK into a single radar chart to visually represent overall center characteristics[cite: 4].

Examples comparing differences in radar chart shapes (characteristic differences) depending on industry or handled product types (food, apparel, parts, etc.)[cite: 4].

A scale showing the required size and throughput capacity (area and processing speed) that a distribution center (DC) must possess based on EIQ analysis results[cite: 4].

A benchmark (scale) for determining whether operation is manageable manually or requires advanced mechanization based on the magnitude of EIQ values[cite: 4].

A more detailed and complex graphing technique that adds metrics such as N (order line count) and K (item appearance count) to basic E, I, and Q elements[cite: 4].

An example of an actual plotted EIQNK graph[cite: 4]. Allows multidimensional data to be understood in a single chart[cite: 4].

Shows the importance of graphing data from various angles to analyze logistics characteristics multidimensionally[cite: 4].

Concludes that the true goal of EIQ analysis is not "analysis for the sake of analysis," but directly linking it to practical operations such as on-site efficiency improvements, optimal equipment allocation, and layout enhancements[cite: 4].