Converts the Demand Plan and Inventory Plan to a multi-level supply of Raw Materials, Semi-Finished and Finished Goods considering constraints in terms of rules, capacity, resources, and materials. This is achieved using the sofco FPA (Finite Planning Algorithm) and simulations to support the planner in identifying the best possible feasible plan to support the business objectives. For instance, this can be applied to demand allocation to various production units, use of overtime, alternate resources, sub-contractors and alternate materials. Multiple scenarios can be developed and compared using KPIs before deployment as the published plan.

The procurement plan can be generated using a classic MRP assuming infinite availability or sofco FPA which considers both availability and alternative materials and sources of supply. Supplier selection is based on rules and stock availability as required (e.g. percentage split, cost, preferred supplier, etc). Sources of supply can also automatically change based on seasonal calendars and procurement can be linked to contracts to monitor consumption and notifying when new contracts need to be considered.

Models the distribution network and determines which products to allocate to which distribution centres based on demand and rules set by the planner. Planning simultaneously takes into account: demand, the geographical location of production sites, distribution centres and customers, primary and secondary routing, lead times, as well as production and transportation capacities.

Generates point of sale/secondary distribution centres replenishment plans, as well as requests to main distribution centres, both in terms of optimal quantities and dates. These plans are elaborated by simultaneous consideration of forecasts and their degree of reliability, product management policies (supply lead time, minimum - multiple replenishment lots), stock management policies (safety stock, dynamic lot sizing), delivery calendar and logistic-operative replenishment features.

Inventory levels can be planned and projected forward in time at the desired levels in the supply chain. These can be planner set levels based on fixed or dynamic values or calculated statistically based on a range of rules and desired outcomes. Where goods or materials are perishable, the system considers the life and therefore expiration of the product (by batch) when planning. The resultant plan gives the business visibility both from a volume and financial perspective on this important and potentially costly asset.

Takes the form of Hyper Parameterisation where past and current plans are analysed in terms of outcomes and parameters used (throughput rates, lead times, lot sizing). The system runs alternate scenarios using different educated parameter values to recommend improved settings to users as ‘Insights’. Insights are presented to the user alongside the existing parameter settings allowing comparison. The user can view the alternate plan results as a scenario and decide whether to adopt the recommended Insights and resultant plan.

Customers are consistently demanding shorter and more accurate response times when enquiring on delivery dates for new orders or enquires. An accurate and fast response can give a competitive edge. sofco ATP/CTP will rapidly return accurate delivery dates, considering available inventory, capacity and materials without compromising existing customer commitments, while joining up Customer Services and Planning.