Which approach helps prevent delays due to supply constraints in Week 1?

• A. Ad hoc purchasing
• B. Planning procurement, scheduling, and contingencies to avoid delays
• C. Waiting for last-minute supply
• D. Relying on volunteers

Answer: (B)

Preventing delays from supply constraints comes from a proactive, end-to-end approach to getting what you need when you need it. Planning procurement, scheduling, and contingencies creates visibility into lead times and required quantities, ties orders to the project timeline, and builds in backups for potential shortages. When you plan ahead, you can secure reliable suppliers, set realistic delivery windows, and establish buffers or alternate sources, so a hiccup in one vendor doesn’t derail the entire schedule. This kind of structured approach reduces rush orders, last‑minute scrambling, and the risk that essential materials are unavailable when needed, which is exactly what Week 1 aims to avoid.

Ad hoc purchasing is reactive and improvisational; it often leads to missed deadlines and higher costs because you don’t have confirmed lead times or backup options. Waiting for last-minute supply is the opposite of planning and almost guarantees delays if supplies don’t show up on time. Relying on volunteers may help with manpower, but it doesn’t address the core issue of timely, reliable access to required materials or equipment.