There are many ways to link all the different planning activities in your FMCG/Pharma company. This could be done with one single tool like the SAP Advanced Planning Optimiser or a host of other tools and packages.

As with all IT youneed to know how to use the software in order to get the optimum performance for your company and that is not always best provided by the IT supplier. If you need help with your consolidated planning system then Enchange is ready to assist.

With the Eurovision Song Contest imminent and on the anniversary of ABBA winning with Waterloo a ridiculous 45 years ago, here is our take on that classic. In the lyrics below you can substitute the name of any IT package but APO does fit the tune well, I think.

With due reference to the original lyrics and music of ABBA.

Why why
Was our planning accurate no longer
It’s bad
And we knew we could not continue this way
Our products are not on the shelf
Poor data it speaks for itself 
APO – No guessing on planning any more
APO – Now planning demand is not a chore
APO – We now know exactly what to do
APO – Smooth functioning  S&OP needs you
APO -  Finally planning with APO

We were
Using monthly planning, but needed longer
Oh yeah
Balancing planning right along the chain seems so right
So why did we ever refuse
It’s a win-win that we choose
APO – No guessing on planning any more
APO – Now planning demand is not a chore
APO – We now know exactly what to do
APO – Smooth functioning  S&OP needs you
APO -  Finally planning with APO

And now we see real proof
Our sales have shot through the roof
APO – No guessing on planning any more
APO – Now planning demand is not a chore
APO – We now know exactly what to do
APO – Smooth functioning  S&OP needs you
APO -  Finally planning with APO

So, will your planning get a nul points or a massive 12?