distributing

Distributing is the act of delivering or allocating something across recipients or locations. It is used in business, logistics, statistics, and digital contexts.

In logistics and supply chain, distributing involves the planning, execution, and control of moving goods from producers to customers. Activities include warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation, and distribution center operations. The aim is to ensure right quantity, right place, right time, and cost efficiency.

Distribution channels describe how products reach end users, using intermediaries such as wholesalers, distributors, retailers, or direct-to-consumer models. Distribution strategies are categorized as intensive (wide access), selective, or exclusive (limited outlets). Channel design balances market coverage, service levels, and margins.

In statistics, a distribution is a description of how a variable's values are spread. A probability distribution assigns probabilities to outcomes; discrete distributions (binomial, Poisson) and continuous distributions (normal, exponential) are characterized by functions such as the probability density function or cumulative distribution function. Distributions underlie modeling, hypothesis testing, and decision making.

Digital distribution refers to delivering content or software via electronic channels, often through platforms or stores. Issues include licensing, rights, royalties, digital rights management, and platform terms. Regulation and ethics influence both physical and digital distribution.