What primary function do Decentralized Material Support (DMS) personnel perform?

The primary function that Decentralized Material Support (DMS) personnel perform is inventory management. DMS is designed to assign material support tasks directly to the user activities, enabling more efficient and responsive management of materials at the local level. This localized approach allows DMS personnel to closely monitor stock levels, track usage patterns, and ensure that the necessary materials are available to meet operational needs without unnecessary delays.

As part of their role, DMS personnel are responsible for accurately recording inventory data and managing the flow of materials to and from the inventory system. This includes responsibilities such as maintaining stock records, performing inventory counts, and addressing discrepancies that may arise. By focusing on inventory management, DMS personnel ensure that resources are allocated effectively, minimizing waste and optimizing supply chain efficiency.

The other choices, while important functions within a material management context, do not align with the specific focus of DMS roles. Equipment maintenance is more aligned with technical personnel, return processing typically falls under material returns and logistics, and logistics planning involves broader supply chain coordination that is separate from the dedicated inventory management duties DMS personnel perform.