Explanation
Replenishment lead time is the time between placing an order and receiving the goods1. Reducing replenishment lead time will result in lower inventory levels, as it will allow the company to order less frequently and in smaller quantities, while still meeting customer demand. This will reduce the safety stock, cycle stock, and pipeline stock that the company needs to hold, and thus lower the inventory carrying costs and risks.
The other options will not result in lower inventory levels. Level loading the MPS means producing at a constant rate regardless of demand fluctuations2. This will result in higher inventory levels, as the company will need to build up inventory during periods of low demand and draw down inventory during periods of high demand. Increasing customer service level means improving the ability to meet customer expectations and requirements3. This will also result in higher inventory levels, as the company will need to hold more safety stock to avoid stockouts and ensure high fill rates. Decentralizing inventory locations means distributing inventory across multiple warehouses or facilities4. This will also result in higher inventory levels, as the company will need to maintain more safety stock at each location to account for demand variability and uncertainty.
References : What is Replenishment Lead Time?; Level Loading Definition; Customer Service Level; Centralized vs Decentralized Inventory Management.