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We are currently using the demand planner in IFS but are starting to reach its limitations. As a result, we're considering implementing a dedicated third-party forecasting and planning tool. Ideally, we need a solution that seamlessly (or near enough) integrates with IFS and supports planning across 18 months in weekly, monthly, and quarterly buckets. It should also include all the functions found in the current demand planner, such as promotions etc.

Additionally, we are looking for optional advanced features, including:

  • Seasonality adjustments and trend analysis.
  • Capacity planning based on demand forecasts.
  • Integration of supply chain constraints, such as lead times and inventory management.
  • Scenario planning for changes in material costs or market demand fluctuations.
  • The ability to run simulations for new product introductions or adjustments to production schedules.

Do any of you have a similar setup, and what tools would you recommend?

Hi @MDDTJAMU, I have created a similar Idea on Material Planning for an Engine MRO customer - So please look into this idea and upvote as well. 

Hi @MDDTJAMU, you mentioned that you have started to reach limitations with the Demand Planner. Would you please elaborate a bit on that please, to better the understanding of the context. Information on the industry that this is for would also be useful. Regards.

Hi @NikhilMalik, 

These are some common issues with using an ERP system instead of dedicated forecasting software:

  • Inability to plan for parts that are still in development and haven't been entered into IFS.
  • Challenges with forecasting for prospective or fictitious customers who haven't been added to IFS. For example, web-store customers are processed under a single IFS customer account since they might be one-time customers.
  • Forecast accuracy issues, such as comparing actual demand for a month (e.g., August) with the forecast generated for that same month in July. This is different from algorithm accuracy, which uses historical forecast values in the demand planner.

These issues continue to arise, and the solutions often involve entering data in different parts of IFS and then pulling them together using a reporting tool.

We are a food manufacturer - we predominately sell B2B.

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