10.2 : Operating Cycle

The operating cycle is a critical measure of a company's efficiency in managing its resources and cash flow. It reflects how quickly a business can convert its investments in inventory and receivables into cash. The operating cycle influences a company's need for working capital. A longer cycle increases the requirement for working capital to sustain daily operations. For example, if a wholesaler experiences delays in receiving payments from retailers, it may need to seek short-term financing to cover essential expenses such as inventory replenishment and payroll.

One way to shorten the operating cycle is through better inventory control. Businesses can adopt just-in-time (JIT) practices to minimize the amount of time products sit in stock before being sold. Additionally, improving accounts receivable processes—such as offering early payment incentives or implementing electronic invoicing—can help accelerate customer payments, further reducing the cycle.

Supplier payment terms also play a significant role in the operating cycle. Negotiating more extended payment periods with suppliers while speeding up customer collections allows businesses to close the cash gap between outgoing and incoming funds.

In conclusion, managing the operating cycle effectively ensures that businesses maintain enough liquidity to avoid excessive external financing, supporting ongoing growth and operational efficiency.