Inventory Optimization for Network Device Lifecycle Tracking and Deployment Readiness in Distributed Banking Environments

Abstract

Efficient management of network device inventories is essential for maintaining operational continuity and infrastructure scalability in distributed banking environments. Financial institutions operate complex network infrastructures that require timely deployment of routers, switches, firewalls, and other security appliances across data centers and branch offices. However, fragmented asset records and inefficient procurement practices often lead to device shortages, delayed deployments, and increased inventory holding costs. This study proposes an analytical framework for optimizing network device inventory management by integrating lifecycle tracking with mathematical inventory optimization and deployment readiness modeling. The proposed framework incorporates procurement databases, configuration management databases (CMDB), network monitoring platforms, and deployment scheduling systems to provide centralized lifecycle visibility and improve infrastructure governance. A mathematical optimization model is developed to minimize total inventory costs while maintaining adequate device availability and deployment readiness across distributed banking infrastructures. Simulation experiments compare the performance of the optimized model with traditional inventory management approaches using metrics such as device availability, deployment readiness, inventory holding costs, and deployment delays. The results demonstrate that lifecycle-aware inventory optimization significantly improves infrastructure deployment readiness, reduces stockout probability, and lowers inventory management costs. The study further highlights operational benefits for banking institutions, including faster branch network rollout, improved cybersecurity patch deployment, enhanced regulatory compliance, and stronger disaster recovery preparedness. The proposed framework provides a practical and scalable approach for improving infrastructure asset management in modern financial networks while supporting strategic infrastructure expansion and operational resilience.