Forecast optimization and Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)
Why Proactive Planning Is Becoming a Core Competency
In a volatile economic world with fluctuating demand and uncertain supply chains, simply “flying by the seat of your pants” is no longer enough. Successful planning requires reliable forecasts, coordinated sales and production plans, and a clear process for aligning demand and capacity. Forecast optimization and S&OP are now indispensable for ensuring delivery capability, reducing costs, optimizing inventory, and safeguarding strategic decisions.
Does this sound familiar?
– Your forecasts rarely come true, leading to overstocking or shortages?
– Sales and production aren’t planning at cross-purposes?
– Decisions aren’t made proactively, but under pressure?
– You lack transparency and structure in your medium-term planning?
– Your planning meetings don’t deliver tangible results?
Then it’s time to take your planning processes to the next level.
Our consulting approach: Planning reimagined – integrated, simulation-based, effective.
By working with us, you benefit from a consistent approach to forecasting and planning optimization:
Improve forecast quality
We analyze your forecasting methods using our simulation tool, clean up historical data, and integrate special factors. We select the most suitable range of static and AI-supported methods for your specific products and test the effectiveness of AI-supported procedures. This significantly improves your forecast accuracy.
Introducing or improving S&OP processes
We will develop a customized, scalable S&OP format with you. From meeting structure to KPI definition, we will provide organizational and technical support for the implementation.
Setting safety stocks correctly
We analyze your current safety stock concept, simulate the effects of alternative settings and adjust your safety stock levels to the correct level for each item – tailored to forecast accuracy, replenishment times and delivery targets.
Matching market demand and capacity
Using scenario techniques and simulation models, we ensure that your plan remains feasible and that your resources are used optimally.
Implementing sales integration
Together with you, we establish structured processes for the systematic integration of sales knowledge into sales planning. The goal: a "one-number plan" that is supported by everyone.
Using digital tools
We improve forecasting and planning processes in APS or ERP systems, e.g. SAP IBP, DISKOVER, etc., thereby creating the technological basis for data-driven planning.
Examples of our consulting services
– Improving forecast accuracy (e.g., +15 to +25%)
– Integrating sales knowledge into forecasting processes
– Implementing efficient S&OP processes
– Balancing demand and capacity using scenarios
– Utilizing forecasting methods in APS/ERP systems
Typical questions we answer:
– How can we sustainably improve our forecast accuracy?
– How can we align sales, supply chain, and production on a common plan?
– How can we effectively hedge against fluctuations in demand and supply?
– What is our sensible target service level – economically viable and achievable?
– How do we establish a functional, streamlined S&OP format?
What makes us different
We don’t offer purely methodical planning routines, but rather a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates organization, technology, and process. Our unique selling proposition: We combine prototyping of technical solutions with organizational implementation and utilize digital twins to realistically simulate and continuously improve your planning processes.
Interlinking of people, technology and organization
S&OP is not an IT project, but S&OP doesn't work without software support. We design processes, roles, and tools in an integrated way.
Sales integration as a process component
Planning becomes a shared responsibility, not the responsibility of the supply chain.
Simulation instead of trial and error
With the Digital Twin, we can assess the impact of planned decisions in advance.
Focus on implementation
We don't build models for their own sake, but deliver practical, sustainably operable routines.
System-neutral and role-based
Whether SAP, DISKOVER or Excel – we optimize your processes in a technology-neutral, but structured way.
A consumer goods manufacturer improved the forecast accuracy for promotional items from 60% to 85% by integrating promotional planning into its forecasts. The result: -30% excess inventory and +20% delivery reliability.
An industrial company was able to maintain 95% delivery readiness during the crisis through an agile S&OP process, while simultaneously reducing inventory by 15%.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is S&OP and why is it important?
A structured, cross-functional planning process that aligns demand, capacity, and financial targets. Essential for stability in uncertain times.
How can forecasts be improved when the data is poor?
Through cleansing, structuring, enrichment with sales knowledge and simulation of alternative methods.
What are the advantages of AI-supported methods?
They recognize hidden patterns, react faster to changes, and often deliver better results with large datasets.
What are the benefits of a "one-number plan"?
Consistency, transparency, clear accountability – and less discussion about the “right number”.
How long does it take to implement an S&OP process?
Depending on the initial situation, between 2 and 6 months. Initial results are usually seen after just a few weeks.
How is acceptance created in sales and production?
Through clear roles, early involvement, proven benefits, and appropriate visualization of the results.