Supply Chain Shaman

MAY 14, 2025

Neils here is some feedback to consider: VMI: Vendor-managed inventory logic enables the downstream trading partner to manage inventories and the sell-through the channel. CPFR: Collaborative Planning, Forecasting and Replenishment garnered great fanfare late in the 1990s.

Modeling 320

Modeling Material Savings Vendor Strategies Supply and Demand 320

Supply Chain Shaman

JUNE 17, 2025

The waste included: Negative Forecast Value Added (FVA) in demand planning. In 85% of organizations that I work with, conventional demand planning processes increase forecast error. This is amplified across the supply chain into an exponential impact on inventory and planned orders for manufacturing. Inventory Health.

Supply Chain Planning Software 195

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Software Scenario Planning 195

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 3, 2025

These steps include sourcing and receiving inventory, storing inventory, order processing, picking and packing an order, shipping the order, and returns management. Factors like planning tools, inventory management, demand patterns, and innovations in technology contribute to the success or failure of fulfillment optimization.

Optimal Sourcing 225

Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Price Mitigation Strategies Sourcing Strategies 225

Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 14, 2025

Delays, excess inventory, missed handoffs, and reactive decision-making are all signs of a supply chain that lacks coordination. The factory uses this information to make scheduling and inventory decisions more efficiently. The system also contributes to better forecasting accuracy.

Supply Chain Planning Software 279

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Software Predictive Analytics Software 279

ToolsGroup

NOVEMBER 27, 2018

Editor’s Note: Two years ago we posted a blog about how to set an annual forecast accuracy target and it was one of our most popular topics. It seems as if everyone is looking to improve their forecasting performance. How much can you realistically expect to improve your forecast accuracy each year?

Forecasting 214

Forecasting Forecasting Software Supply and Demand Modeling 214

Supply Chain Shaman

OCTOBER 16, 2023

A shift from functional metrics to a balanced scorecard. I like the use of growth, margin, inventory turns, Return on Invested Capital, customer service and ESG metrics. The focus on functional metrics sub-optimizes balance sheet results. Improved Forecast Value Added (FVA). Funny, isn’t it? Fire the Apes.

S&OP 390

S&OP Supply and Demand Forecasting Supply Chain Design Software 390

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 28, 2020

Only four percent of companies compared to their peer groups improved balance sheet performance of growth, operating margin, and inventory turns. When compared to pre-recession years, we ended the decade with twenty more days of inventory. Days of Inventory Comparison. So, I asked the questions, “Is your data forecastable?

Supply Chain Planning Software 418

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling 418

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 10, 2025

Leading organizations are building supply chains that are less exposed to single points of failure, more informed by real-time data, and more able to adjust sourcing, inventory, and routing based on current conditions. Metrics must reflect the new priorities. The Shift Toward Resilience The strategic conversation is beginning to shift.

Optimal Sourcing 216

Optimal Sourcing Modeling Supply Chain Optimization Cost Reduction Strategies 216

ToolsGroup

JANUARY 21, 2025

Returns Management and Integration With 35% of online purchases being returned, predominantly to physical stores, retailers are grappling with the ripple effects on inventory management. Early adopters of these integrated platforms report significant improvements in inventory turnover and reduction in stockouts.

Supply Chain Planning Software 156

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Software Inventory Reduction Price Reduction 156

Logility

JUNE 23, 2023

That’s precisely what demand forecasting feels like for many businesses today. Enter causal forecasting. Unfortunately, many companies hesitate to use causal forecasting, thinking it’s too complicated or resource-hungry. What is Causal Forecasting? That’s where causal forecasting comes into play.

Forecasting 193

Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling Predictive Analytics Software 193

Supply Chain Shaman

MAY 12, 2025

Form and socialize your own hierarchy of metrics. For example, don’t focus on forecast error. Instead, analyze demand flow characteristics by demand stream to evaluate Forecast Value Added (FVA), forecastability, and bullwhip impact. Design your supply chain with a focus on the form and function of inventory.

Modeling 221

Modeling Waste Reduction Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software 221

ToolsGroup

MAY 8, 2025

This means going beyond high-level forecasts to embrace tools and practiceslike Demand Collaboration, Scenario Planning, and detailed modelingthat make Sales & Operations Planning actionable, dynamic, and performance-driven. As Gartner highlights, companies tend to prioritize improving forecast accuracy to strengthen S&OP results.

Inventory Reduction 156

Inventory Reduction Price Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Planning Software 156

Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 4, 2025

Despite the evolution of technology, none of the 28 industry segments I follow can drive improvement at the intersection of operating margin and inventory turns. Functional Metrics and the Lack of Alignment to Strategy. Change is Hard. Unlearning is Tougher. The industry is full of experts. Guess what? Clarity on Value. Guess what?

Supply Chain Design Software 221

Supply Chain Design Software Price Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Planning Software 221

Supply Chain Shaman

JUNE 29, 2021

Using balance sheet data from 2011 to 2019, we chart companies’ progress by peer group on rate of improvement and performance in the metrics of growth, operating margin, inventory turns, and Return on Invested Capital (ROIC). Let me share some and see what you think: Does forecast ownership make a difference in outcomes?

Supply Chain Planning Software 370

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Design 370

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 1, 2021

Why should we consider Promotion Planning in Inventory Management? Whether it be e-commerce, brick-and-mortar, or both, retail companies care about the inventory they keep. During promotional management, especially for big events around special days and holidays, inventory levels need to be adjusted to meet the peaks in demand.

Inventory Management Software 279

Inventory Management Software Supply Chain Planning Software Inventory Management Optimal Sourcing 279

Supply Chain Shaman

MARCH 21, 2024

In my first classes, I taught the group how to speak the language of demand—forecastability, Forecast Value Added (FVA), backcasting, demand and market latency, and market drivers. We explore the concept of holistic inventory strategies focused on the form and function of inventory. Instead, we need to Jump. The So What?

Inventory Reduction 434

Inventory Reduction Supply Chain Planning Software Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Design Software 434

Enchange Supply Chain Consultancy

JUNE 10, 2025

Do Set Clear KPIs and Governance Structures : Establish transparent metrics for sales, coverage, and service levels. Do Embrace Technology and Data : Use real-time data for demand forecasting, inventory management, and route optimization. A well-equipped distributor is an extension of your brand and a key to market penetration.

Waste Reduction 165

Waste Reduction Vendor Strategies Inventory Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies 165

RFgen

NOVEMBER 13, 2024

Picture this: You’re a warehouse manager, and with a few taps on your smartphone, you instantly know the exact location and quantity of every item in your inventory. That’s not science fiction—it’s the power of mobile inventory management. Ready to turn your inventory from a headache into a strategic asset?

Inventory Management Software 96

Inventory Management Software Real-time Visibility Inventory Reduction Inventory Management 96

RFgen

NOVEMBER 27, 2024

Supply chain optimization is crucial for enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness by providing end-to-end visibility, aligning with demand forecasts, and continuously improving processes through technology and analytics. Demand Forecasting: Analyze past data to predict future needs.

Optimal Sourcing 98

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Optimization Modeling Inventory Reduction 98

Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 18, 2024

Innovative tools provide actionable insights and improve operational efficiency Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI systems optimize routing and demand forecasting, reducing energy consumption and empty miles. AI-powered warehouse management improves inventory flow and reduces waste.

Optimal Sourcing 266

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software Material Savings Supply Chain Planning Software 266

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 10, 2024

Supply chain resilience refers to planning for things that could go wrong and then creating inventory buffers or contingency plans. SCP solutions provide a solid ROI based on hitting targeted service levels with less raw material, work-in-process, or finished goods inventory. Or, the forecast might be much more detailed.

Supply Chain Planning Software 316

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning Modeling 316

Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 3, 2022

Supply shortages resulting in empty shelves or parking lots of WIP inventory represent a spectre causing supply chain leaders to reconsider supply chain inventory practices. Opinion of just-in-time (JIT) as a practice has taken a battering and inventory is rising. Is supply chain inventory the problem?

Inventory Reduction 329

Inventory Reduction Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning 329

ToolsGroup

MARCH 3, 2022

Despite knowing all this, too many retailers ignore the impact of weather and this adds error to plans and demand forecasts. And even though meteorology has come a long way, weather is a notoriously fickle and uncontrollable factor, and no forecaster can reliably predict it beyond the next few weeks. It all evens out in the end.

Forecasting 156

Forecasting Forecasting Software Procurement Analytics Retail 156

RFgen

DECEMBER 4, 2024

In the automotive sector, manufacturers are simultaneously reducing inventory costs and delivery times. We’ll examine the key components of efficient supply chains, explore essential performance metrics, and uncover the fundamental drivers that influence efficiency.

Sourcing Strategies 96

Sourcing Strategies Inventory Reduction Waste Reduction Expense Reduction 96

ShipBob

OCTOBER 24, 2022

You never really know how it will all turn out, yet you need to be able to answer questions like these: How many units of inventory do you need to have on hand to be at full stock for each SKU? How often do you project to replenish inventory ? Forecasting projections is one of the toughest things to get right. That’s fine!

Forecasting 130

Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling Demand Planning Software 130

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 23, 2024

AI-driven predictive maintenance can also forecast potential issues before they occur, reducing downtime and improving product reliability. This integration includes tracking individual components and collecting data on environmental impact, including sustainability metrics such as carbon footprint and recyclability.

Resource Reduction 292

Resource Reduction Vendor Strategies Inventory Reduction Price Mitigation Strategies 292

The Logistics of Logistics

JUNE 14, 2024

trillion distortion inventory problem. Trillion Inventory Distortion Problem In this podcast, Karl Swensen, CEO and Co-founder of Pull Logic, discusses how their AI-enabled technology helps retailers, brands, and manufacturers reduce lost sales by addressing supply chain and selling process failure points. Summary: Solving the $1.8

Inventory Reduction 264

Inventory Reduction Inventory Inventory Management Software Modeling 264

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 4, 2021

A study by E2open – the 2021 Forecasting and Inventory Benchmark Study: Supply Chain Performance During the Covid-19 Pandemic – provides the answers. Benchmarking the forecasting process is difficult. The company provides demand and inventory planning solutions based on a public cloud architecture.

Supply Chain Performance 284

Supply Chain Performance Inventory Reduction Supply and Demand Cost Reduction Strategies 284

Supply Chain Shaman

OCTOBER 11, 2023

We speak about the need to move from a functional understanding to a global, holistic capabilities, but the traditional supply chain leader defines bonus incentives and process performance goals based on functional metrics. I often laugh when companies ask me to define a good forecast. Measurement.

Supply Chain Planning Software 417

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Forecasting Software Supply Chain Network Software 417

Supply Chain Shaman

JUNE 24, 2022

The future inventory fire sale. One of my stark realizations this year is that smaller companies are beating larger and often more established companies on growth metrics, inventory turns, operating margin, and Return on Invested Capital (ROIC). (In The metrics selection resulted from work with Arizona State University in 2013.)

Supply Chain Planning Software 397

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Software 397

Logility

JUNE 2, 2023

In the intricate world of supply chain management, the accuracy of demand forecasting often serves as the cornerstone of business growth. Yet, despite its significance, demand forecasting continues to be a thorny issue for many businesses, particularly manufacturers. What is Demand Forecasting Accuracy? Let’s get started!

Forecasting 130

Forecasting Modeling Forecasting Software Supply and Demand 130

Logility

APRIL 28, 2025

It could write poetry, generate code, or answer inquiries about next months forecast. It’s a natural fit for an environment built on orchestration across vendors, partners, inventory, and data. Immediately, the agent reoptimizes inventory routes in North America and updates the customer in Europe all without human involvement.

Supply Chain Planning Software 147

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Modeling Supply Chain Software 147

Logility

JUNE 7, 2023

Top 3 Demand Forecasting Mistakes —How To Avoid Them with Demand planning software Demand forecasting is a critical facet of successful business operations, acting as the helm guiding companies through the rocks hiding beneath the water of market demands. What is Demand Forecasting?

Supply and Demand 130

Supply and Demand Demand Planning Software Forecasting Software Forecasting 130

SCMDOJO

OCTOBER 30, 2024

For instance, a student struggling with inventory management concepts can receive supplementary materials, interactive simulations, and one-on-one tutoring sessions tailored to their needs. Conversely, a student who quickly grasps procurement strategies can be challenged with advanced case studies and leadership projects.

Supply Chain Planning Software 97

Supply Chain Planning Software Analytics Software Forecasting Software Predictive Analytics Software 97

Silvon Software

APRIL 16, 2025

Inventory is the lifeblood of any manufacturing business. By leveraging analytics and key performance indicators (KPIs), manufacturers can optimize inventory, reduce waste, and boost profitability. Tracking inventory flow and performance across your supply chain is a must. Thats where data-driven decision-making comes in!

Optimal Sourcing 65

Optimal Sourcing Inventory Reduction Supply Chain Optimization Price Mitigation Strategies 65

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 29, 2023

PO Collaboration focuses on maintaining accurate demand forecasts, timely communication with suppliers, and efficient replenishment processes to ensure optimal stock levels and minimize stockouts. Configure to Order: This strategy involves customizing standard products based on customer specifications.

Manufacturing Procurement 269

Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Analytics Material Savings Inventory Reduction 269

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 11, 2024

I’ll describe three of the top areas: seamless collaboration, improved forecast accuracy embedded in the supply chain workflow, and disruption response. Historically these roles are siloed, focused on their own functional metrics. Planning together allows companies to reduce excess inventory that builds up when they plan sequentially.

Pharmaceutical 312

Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Agile and Lean Supply Chain 312