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. When we measure the bullwhip impact (in my class on outside-in process thinking), the bullwhip between manufacturing and procurement is 2-3X.

Supply Chain Planning Software 195

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

ivalua

MAY 21, 2025

Enterprise procurement teams face growing pressure to deliver strategic value – managing supplier risk, ensuring compliance, and supporting sustainability – all without sacrificing speed or control. This blog explores the most common challenges in digital procurement and the capabilities that matter most.

Optimal Sourcing 130

Optimal Sourcing Procurement Solutions Procurement Analytics Analytics Software 130

SCMDOJO

OCTOBER 28, 2024

Procurement People should learn the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Process. Procurement professionals can contribute significantly to the S&OP process by providing valuable insights into supply chain dynamics, identifying potential risks, and optimizing sourcing strategies.

S&OP 97

S&OP Optimal Sourcing Supply and Demand Material Savings 97

The Logistics of Logistics

MAY 1, 2024

Samuel Parker and Joe Lynch discuss DAT iQ: the metrics that matter. DAT iQ provides freight intelligence to inform your budget and procurement strategies so you can navigate market volatility with greater confidence and agility. Source capacity with precision using supply and demand metrics and forecasts.

Metrics 246

Metrics Logistics Network Optimization Software Analytics Software Optimal Sourcing 246

ivalua

JUNE 9, 2025

In this type of environment, traditional procurement software and manual processes are insufficient – and many procurement teams are looking to artificial intelligence (AI) for answers. Key Takeaways Understand the potential impact of AI – including Generative AI & AI Agents – in procurement.

Optimal Sourcing 130

Optimal Sourcing Procurement Solutions Purchasing Skills Procurement Analytics 130

Precoro

DECEMBER 24, 2024

Traditionally, procurement has been a process weighed down by manual tasks, fragmented systems, and endless paperwork. Today, procurement is undergoing a transformation. While procurement teams have long worked to add strategic value, Artificial Intelligence (AI) amplifies their impact.

Price Reduction 105

Price Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Sourcing Strategies Expense Reduction 105

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 28, 2020

The SAS forecasting system implemented in 2019 was not tested for model accuracy. An example for this client would be to use 2017 and 2018 history to forecast 2019. So, I asked the questions, “Is your data forecastable? Data at this level of variability is complicated to forecast.) The reason? The answer?

Supply Chain Planning Software 418

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling 418

ivalua

MAY 10, 2025

Enterprise procurement leaders are under more pressure than ever—juggling cost control, compliance, supplier risk, and internal complexity, all while trying to modernize outdated systems. AI, automation, and generative tools are redefining efficiency, allowing procurement teams to move from reactive to proactive decision-making.

Procurement Solutions 130

Procurement Solutions Sourcing Strategies Optimal Sourcing Analytics Software 130

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.

Inventory Reduction 165

Inventory Reduction Waste Reduction Vendor Strategies Cost Reduction Strategies 165

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. The class discovers the current blackholes of the supply chain (direct procurement and contract manufacturing. Lack of aligned metrics.

Inventory Reduction 434

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

RFgen

DECEMBER 4, 2024

Supply chain efficiency is the cornerstone of success and involves the effective management of processes, resources, and technologies from procurement to production, transportation to warehousing. Let’s break down these key components: Procurement: This is where it all begins.

Sourcing Strategies 96

Sourcing Strategies Inventory Reduction Waste Reduction Expense Reduction 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

Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Initially, the output was published to procurement to design strategic buying strategies. Procurement became an island–isolated from the demand signal except for MRP. Watermelon Metrics Don’t Drive The Right Results. I love the metaphor of watermelon metrics. What are functional metrics?

Supply Chain Planning Software 355

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply and Demand Procurement Analytics 355

Precoro

JUNE 2, 2025

Definition: Financial forecasting is a projection of the company's future financial performance based on historical data, market research, and business needs. The forecasts act as a guide, which you can use to make strategic decisions on resource allocation and define clear, attainable goals.

Forecasting 45

Forecasting Forecasting Software Expense Reduction Procurement Solutions 45

Supply Chain Brain

JUNE 17, 2025

Koganti urged the procurement audience to look for whats referred to as “foresight function” in planning tools, which is capable of enhancing data analysis, scenario generation and trend identification , allowing for more informed and proactive decision-making, albeit with human oversight.

Supply Chain Planning Software 100

Supply Chain Planning Software Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Software 100

SCMDOJO

OCTOBER 30, 2024

Conversely, a student who quickly grasps procurement strategies can be challenged with advanced case studies and leadership projects. MTSS platforms facilitate hands-on projects where learners can apply statistical methods to identify trends, forecast demand, and optimize inventory levels.

Supply Chain Planning Software 97

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

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. Consequences of Lack of PO Collaboration Capabilities Failure to prioritize PO collaboration can lead to severe consequences for companies.

Manufacturing Procurement 270

Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Analytics Material Savings Inventory Reduction 270

Logility

APRIL 28, 2025

It could write poetry, generate code, or answer inquiries about next months forecast. The connected ecosystem of composition agents works across fulfillment, procurement, planning, and logistics. But 2025 ushered a momentous change to everything we know about autonomy: goal-driven AI.

Supply Chain Planning Software 147

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

Supply Chain Shaman

JUNE 5, 2013

Clear understanding that the focus needs to be on the probability of the forecast, and that the focus needs to be outside-in based on channel data. Use of Forecast-value Add techniques to improve the accuracy of the forecast. Integration of corporate social responsibility metrics in planning. Procurement.

Supply Chain Planning Software 255

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Supply and Demand Supply Chain Design Software 255

SYSPRO Smarter ERP

MARCH 15, 2023

Manufactures are continuously faced with the challenge of forecasting how much (raw material) to purchase and how much (finished goods) to produce. To manage this delicate balance of demand and supply, manufacturers often use statistical forecasting techniques to predict future demand by looking at historical sales data.

Forecasting 105

Forecasting Forecasting Software Demand Planning Software Modeling 105

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 1, 2021

This requires using advanced analytics to analyze historical demand patterns, link the demand peaks to the promotional offers, and adjust future forecasts based on planned promotions. With the availability of a multitude of tools and digital solutions, all this processing and prediction can be easily automated.

Inventory Management Software 280

Inventory Management Software Supply Chain Planning Software Inventory Management Optimal Sourcing 280

SCMDOJO

APRIL 11, 2025

Understanding how your Procurement and Supply Chain KPIs are performing isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for survival and growth. Why You Need Visibility of Supply Chain and Procurement KPIs? Running procurement and supply chain without metrics is like driving blindfolded.

Pricing Training 72

Pricing Training Optimal Sourcing Purchasing Skills Negotiating Skills 72

Unleashed

MARCH 9, 2021

What is procurement? In simple terms business procurement is the process of locating and acquiring goods and services from external sources for the business to use. Procurement activities include planning, sourcing, and negotiation, along with risk management, legal and value analysis. Procurement in 2021 and beyond.

Procurement Analytics 104

Procurement Analytics Procurement Solutions Optimal Sourcing Material Savings 104

SCMDOJO

FEBRUARY 16, 2025

From rule-based systems to predictive analytics and the generative AI boom, businesses have leveraged these technologies to optimize operations, forecast trends, and create data-driven strategies. Keelvar Keelvar specializes in autonomous procurement and supplier negotiations, making sourcing more efficient and cost-effective.

Optimal Sourcing 72

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Sourcing Strategies 72

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. Had we forecasted that, we would have built a different supply chain.”

Pharmaceutical 312

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

Supply Chain Shaman

SEPTEMBER 17, 2014

There are three reasons why: Vertical excellence—having the best manufacturing, procurement or transportation function—has not worked. Aligned Metrics. An investment in SAP ERP improves transactional effectiveness in order-to-cash and procure-t0-pay. Can you help us with what you see in the data?” ” Yes, I said.

Optimal Sourcing 365

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Manufacturing Procurement 365

ivalua

JUNE 12, 2025

If you’re evaluating procurement technology or exploring ways to drive more value from existing systems, chances are you’re looking beyond tactical fixes – you want a smarter, scalable strategy. Misaligned priorities across finance, legal, and procurement create friction that delays decision-making and reduces impact.

Cost Reduction Strategies 130

Cost Reduction Strategies Material Savings Expense Reduction Negotiating Skills 130

ivalua

NOVEMBER 29, 2022

In recent years, the overall state of Procurement has been bolstered by increased proficiency, expanding engagement, and a growing direct impact on operations. And they’re not the only ones—other department heads are also increasingly budget-conscious, creating a new opportunity to partner with procurement for better budget management.

Procurement Analytics 130

Procurement Analytics Metrics Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing 130

Supply Chain Brain

JUNE 17, 2025

Tesco and Walmart have announced procurement policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability throughout their extended supply chains. AI can integrate with procurement platforms, utility meters, logistics trackers and internet of things sensors to gather real-time data. Retailers are following suit.

Rail Software 91

Rail Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Software 91

Silvon Software

JUNE 23, 2020

As I mentioned in my previous post, Sales Dashboards – 16 Metrics for Manufacturers , a strategy for measuring business performance should also incorporate metrics that focus on the supply chain and other operational areas of the enterprise. Sales to Forecast and Sales to Outlook. You can refine as you go! Past Due Orders.

Manufacturing Procurement 111

Manufacturing Procurement Metrics Gartner Supply Chain Planning Software 111

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 23, 2024

Collaborate across departments: Engage stakeholders from different departments within the organization – not just supply chain management including logistics and procurement but sales, marketing, and finance. market data, weather forecasts, geopolitical factors, events), and IoT devices (e.g., ERP, CRM, SCM), external sources (e.g.,

Optimal Sourcing 307

Optimal Sourcing Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Software Modeling 307

Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 14, 2021

I have to forecast my avocado sales, including seasonal patterns and promotional effects. Crowdsourcing of Drivers and Rider Forecasting. They can optimize courier and order matching, increase visibility, and track important metrics such as order lead time, OTIF, courier performance, and customer satisfaction.

Supply Chain Planning Software 289

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Software Supply Chain Design Software Optimization Software 289

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 22, 2021

While the terminology evolved, the underlying thesis of S&OP has stayed the same, i.e., bridge the divide between sales forecasts and operational plans while respecting the budget. For example, forecasts are generated using the past three years of history, implicitly assuming history repeats.

S&OP 284

S&OP Supply and Demand Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software 284

Supply Chain Shaman

JUNE 3, 2013

At a time that marketplace offerings were super-hyped, I forecasted the doom of ten e-marketplace providers. In the height of the e-commerce craze, the marketplace offerings started with a focus on e-procurement. The widely-held view was that the e-procurement market would fuel the next generation of marketplace applications.

Supply Chain Design Software 321

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Procurement Analytics Manufacturing Procurement 321

Jaggaer

MARCH 24, 2025

Top 3 Procurement Technologies to Embrace in 2025 Staying ahead of key procurement technology and advancements is essential for CPOs who want to improve spend cost reduction, drive strategic value, and navigate the increasingly complex procurement landscape.

Optimal Sourcing 52

Optimal Sourcing Procurement Analytics Procurement Solutions Price Reduction 52

GlobalTranz

NOVEMBER 30, 2021

When you track transportation metrics and KPIs like transit time, on-time pickups, and percent of truckload capacity utilized across your carrier partners, you can identify trends and opportunities for streamlined OTR transportation management. Forecast Demand?with?Analytics. Harvard Business Review Analytic Services study?report

Optimal Sourcing 296

Optimal Sourcing Transportation Rail Software Sourcing Strategies 296

Supply Chain Shaman

AUGUST 12, 2024

Forecastability. Today, due to the increase in the long tail of the supply chain and changing customer dynamics, less than 50% of items are forecastable at an item level. The only products that can be efficiently outsourced with long lead times are in the “forecastable” column. Let me explain. Not so today.

Waste Reduction 195

Waste Reduction Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Sourcing Strategies 195