Planning optimization has evolved far beyond production scheduling. Discover how leading manufacturers are using APS, AI, and integrated planning to evaluate scenarios, optimize capacity, improve customer service, and gain a competitive advantage through better decision-making.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson discusses two recent examples: a fire affecting a medical device distribution center and another involving a cold storage facility. Both highlight why manufacturers and distributors need more than a static plan.
Although the Supreme Court ruling changed how tariffs are implemented, it did not eliminate them. With new trade agreements taking shape and additional negotiations underway, manufacturers and distributors should focus on strengthening supply chain resilience, profitability, and flexibility to navigate the evolving trade environment.
Lisa Anderson explains why AI cannot replace a formal SIOP process. While technology can improve analysis and decision-making, successful planning still requires strong business processes, cross-functional alignment, operational discipline, and organizational accountability.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a powerful tool in the supply chain leader's toolkit. Although there is no shortage of hype surrounding AI, the most successful organizations are finding practical ways to leverage its capabilities to improve decision-making, accelerate analysis, and uncover opportunities hidden within their data.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why companies must pay close attention to demand signals, translate demand into supply requirements and confirm whether suppliers truly have the capacity to support the plan. Knowing when materials will arrive and having a clear ETA is critical.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and digitization are fundamentally changing sustainability from a reporting exercise into an engineered outcome. AI and digital transformation can tie directly into how products are designed, how factories operate, and how supply chains are managed, not only creating customer and EBITDA value but also supporting sustainability and the triple bottom line.
Advanced Planning Systems (APS) are no longer optional - they are becoming critical to smarter, faster and more profitable supply chain decisions. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why manufacturers should be looking closely at APS. Recent client situations highlighted three key needs: scenario planning, constraint-based planning and end-to-end visibility & predictive insights.
Nellson partnered with LMA Consulting Group to improve demand visibility and create more effective production plans. Through SIOP and longer-term planning, the company established a stronger operational rhythm, reduced inventory by 50%, improved OTIF performance into the high 90% range, and strengthened operational performance across the business.
When Armacell's OTIF performance fell to 38%, the company partnered with LMA Consulting Group to strengthen planning processes, optimize SAP capabilities, and improve cross-functional collaboration. Through SIOP improvements, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable process changes, Armacell increased OTIF performance to more than 90%, improved customer satisfaction, and built a stronger foundation for long-term growth.
