~50% reduction
In Excess Stock Levels (Inventory Optimization)
~39K Euros
Cumulative Cost Savings
3 hours
Planners’ time saved weekly
Our client, who is a global FMCG major, was using an inefficient, manual & time-taking excel-based SC planning methods even after the implemented Advanced Planning and Optimizer (APO) solutions. The manual excel based approach was being used as the APO systems were not considering important metrics like Consolidated Production Cycles, Over/Under Supply, and hence were leading to inadequate dispatch plans and inaccurate reports. The inefficient and sub-optimal APO solution required a need for a system overhaul and optimization. With the improved and comprehensive solution, the client also needed a robust approach for faster and efficient SC planning.
Thoucentric, with its experience in managing multiple Supply Chain based change management projects, laid out a comprehensive project plan to turn around the existing inefficient system to a faster yet efficient and robust solution for the client.
- Understanding the current system: We played a crucial role in understanding the current AS-IS system by conducting multiple workshops with the planners. The current technical system, its users and the important SC metrics were studied in detail to arrive at a robust change management approach.
- Understanding the current system: We played a crucial role in understanding the current AS-IS system by conducting multiple workshops with the planners. The current technical system, its users and the important SC metrics were studied in detail to arrive at a robust change management approach.
- Rapid prototyping for a desired solution:We worked closely with the business and SC team. We were able to detail out the supply chain planning models to arrive at a desired To-Be solution using our agile methodologies, high touchpoints and open discussions.
- Reporting and Tracking System:We understand the importance of data and thus worked on action-based analytics to integrate the same in the SC planning process. We established tracking systems to assess system performance and have a ready, efficient and direct dispatch solutions in the system.
- End-User Training:With detailed documentations which included training forums and SOPs on the new processes, we planned for upskilling planner capabilities ensuring a continuous learning support.
By successfully overhauling the SC planning system, which was highly inefficient in the current excel-based solution or APO system, our client was able to significantly improve their inventory and SC planning. There was a 50% Reduction in the excess stock levels, optimising the associated inventory related costs. With the rapid and data-based intelligent solution, we enabled the client with an approach which was Agile, Reliable and Faster. Apart from the process-related benefits, the client was also able to unlock substantial cost savings and financial benefits due to optimal inventory levels and ~50% reduction in the planning hours.