You have the foresight to expect your retail customers’ orders are going to take a hit – now what?
Align Inventory to Shifting Consumer Demands
on April 26, 2022
| By Mark Schwans
Retail and CPG companies have challenges with inventory uncertainties and workforce shortages driven by supply disruptions, inflation, low unemployment, and shifting consumer demand. Yet to improve productivity and results, two words are often thrown out as the solution: Automation & Insights. But they often ring hallow.
Why Today’s Challenges are Fueling Labor Productivity Growth
on April 21, 2022
| By Mark Schwans
It's time for some good news. Labor productivity grew by 2.2% annually between 2020 and 2021, up from a 0.9% average annual growth from 2011 to 2019. Before attributing this to people working more hours, labor productivity is measured as the output per worker hour. Hence, people are becoming more efficient.
How to Evaluate an AI Demand Forecasting & Planning Solution
on March 10, 2022
| By Mark Schwans
AI Demand Forecasting & Planning solutions are redefining traditional practices. They're improving inventory placement and reducing overall inventory costs, returns, and markdowns. Already prominent retailers such as Walgreens and PACSUN are reaping the benefits of these solutions. But not all solutions are created equally, and people struggle to evaluate them. Many advocate pilots, and while that is a viable option, even free pilots cost your company time and resources. Pilot or not, you need methods to down-select solution providers.
Restoring Available to Promise through Intelligent Order Promising
on February 22, 2022
| By Vinay Chaturvedi
Everyone needs an escape. Something, anything, to take your mind off your current situation and recharge. Mine is carpentry. While I am no professional or craftsman, I've restored a 70-year-old dining table and built desks as well as a bench so I can enjoy my lemon trees inside. I’ve even fixed a pre-World War 2 dresser, which contained a fabulous surprise, but more on that later. Restoration is my passion. It's a great feeling bringing something back by stripping away the layers of paint, reconstructing lost parts, and rediscovering the beauty of the design. You learn a lot in this process.