FuturMaster

"Robust Demand Planning Functionality"

Overall: Overall, this platform has helped to notably improve overall forecast accuracy for the demand planning team, while reducing the corresponding forecast biases. Once the initial learning curve and the master data were thoroughly cleansed, the demand planning tool proved to be much more effective than the previous solution.

Pros: This platform allows for forecasting using a variety of different statistical techniques. It also separates out forecasts based on baseline, promo, launch, and free of charge. This separation of types of forecasts is a great benefit for a demand planner, as it helps to easily identify the sum of the forecasts as opposed to just seeing a single consolidated number. In addition, this platform allows demand planners to manage their forecasts via exception rather than having to actively manage each SKU within their catalogue. Managing via exception is made possible through some robust Alert Reporting that is build into the software.

Cons: While the functionality and reporting capabilities within the tool are great, one major negative is the time it takes to become well versed on the platform. This is not a highly intuitive software, as it requires dozens of hours of training before gaining a basic level of comfort. In addition, the platform forces you to accurately maintain most relevant master data, as elements such as material status directly impact the forecasting abilities within the platform.