Empower Your Supply Chain with Next-Generation Technology Solutions

Abstract blue dotted patternAbstract blue dotted pattern

Let our experts help you harness technology to optimise your supply chain and operations.

Looking to build a solid foundation that’s both smart and cost-effective?

excelpower automatepower appspower bidataverse

Contact us today to discuss opportunities to uplift your Excel capability, and tap into the automation potential of the Microsoft Power Platform.

Ready to take the first steps into true scalability & platform agility?

DIFOTPlannerNetworkWorkforce

User Friendly Design - Built by Supply Chain Technology Experts. Click here to understand the possibilities offered through trace’s proprietary .Solutions suite

Looking to harness proven market solutions for unmatched capabilities?

kinaxisGAINSauto storeM2XLLamasoft logobestraneOrtecWindowssc analytixSAP logozycuscoupa

Contact us today to discuss opportunities to uplift your Excel capability, and tap into the automation potential of the Microsoft Power Platform.

Get in touch.

Mat
Mathew Tolley

Mathew has over 15 years of experience in the public and private sector, advising senior executives on technical solutions in operations and supply chain, from design and development through to system implementation. This experience has been gained in sectors including hospitality, distribution, retail, telecommunications, fast-moving consumer goods, pharmaceutical products, food processing, after-market parts, and the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

tim
Tim Fagan

Tim has over 10 years experience in collaboratively working clients to find the right technology solution to meet their unique needs. With a background in tactical solution development, best of breed system implementation, system requirements definition, multi-language programming, (plus an undergraduate and postgraduate in Mechatronics) Tim has the expertise to support clients navigate their supply chain technology journey.

What are the typical questions we help our clients answer?

Conversation

Advisory

What are the next steps for technology in our business?

Blue tick icon
Tech Strategy & Roadmap Development
Blue tick icon
Technology Diagnostics and Assessments
Blue tick icon
Solution Design
Blue tick icon
Solution Selection &
Go To Market Support
Gears

Delivery

How can we set our business up for success with new technology changes?

Blue tick icon
System Integration, Data Analysis & cleansing
Blue tick icon
Project Governance & Management
Blue tick icon
Business Process design, Op. Model Alignment
& Change management
Blue tick icon
Support Model Design & Execution
Server

Development & Configuration

What are the solutions we need? What should they deliver?

Blue tick icon
Solution Optimisation & Refinement
Blue tick icon
Functional Requirements & Technical Design
Blue tick icon
Solution Testing & Tuning
Blue tick icon
Tactical solution Development
Binary

Data & Analytics

How is effective is our supply chain operation? How well do we leverage our data?

Blue tick icon
Performance Management
Blue tick icon
Supply Chain Modelling
& Analytics
Blue tick icon
Architecture & Data Quality Assessments
Blue tick icon
Data Governance Frameworks

Solutions we have implemented with our clients.

Checklist

Supplier DIFOT & Credit Tracking

SC Analytix’s PTC Servigistics solution optimises your service parts supply chain

Boxes

Inventory Planning Software

Review forecasted demand, uplift ordering and inventory management discipline. Effectively manage service and cost.

Network

Supplier Fulfilment Comms.

Monitor and record supplier fulfilment performance. Automatically distribute targeted communications to internal teams.

Graph

Reporting Dashboards

Unlock continuous improvement opportunities and improve responsiveness through visibility of operational performance

People

Demand Forecast & Workforce Planning

Plan for peak periods of demand, optimise workforce capacity and roster investment to meet service and cost targets.

G

Best-of-Breed Inventory Planning System Implementation

Leverage the potential of market leading inventory planning and optimisation capability.

Chef hat

Production Kitchen Planning & Recipe Management

SC Analytix’s PTC Servigistics solution optimises your service parts supply chain

Gear

Operational Asset Tracking

Maintain operational visibility of assets across the network, ensuring continuing capability exists and mitigating investment risk

Our Partnerships

SC Analytix’s PTC Servigistics solution optimises your service parts supply chain

Delivering solutions for complex logistics problems

A single platform for supply chain orchestration

Helping companies fulfil their customer's promises, GAINS is the supply chain performance optimisation company

AutoStore develops order fulfilment solutions to help businesses achieve efficiency gains within the storage and retrieval of goods.

Cloud Based Transport Management System for Agriculture

Zycus is the leader in Source-to-Pay (S2P) solutions, pioneering the world's first Generative AI powered platform that helps procurement achieve 10X speed and efficiency

Precision Economics focuses on the delivery of tailored economic and quantitative work, especially in situations where existing tools are unable to answer the questions under examination

Informed 365 offer Cloud Based Solutions to Efficiently Manage Your and Your Supply Chain’s Environmental and Social Performance

Mushiny provides proven robot intelligent warehousing solutions for warehousing users, regardless of industry origin

Create unified strategic supply and demand, production, merchandising, and operations planning decisions with the RELEX AI-based platform

Coupa conquers complexity by delivering intelligent insights across supply chain, procurement, and finance

Featured Articles

Technology
January 6, 2025

Transforming Supply Chains with AI Agents: Insights for ANZ Leaders.

Discover how AI agents are revolutionising supply chains in retail, manufacturing, and FMCG by enhancing forecasting, inventory management, and logistics through seamless integration with SAP, Oracle, WMS, and Microsoft Power Apps. Learn how Trace Consultants can help your organisation unlock efficiencies and gain a competitive edge.

How AI Agents are Transforming Supply Chains in Retail, Manufacturing, and FMCG

In the fast-evolving business landscape of Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), supply chains are under immense pressure to adapt, optimise, and deliver greater value. For CIOs, CFOs, and CEOs, the challenge is clear: leverage technology to unlock efficiencies, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Enter AI agents — the game-changing tools that are revolutionising supply chains in retail, manufacturing, and FMCG sectors.

What Are AI Agents?

AI agents are advanced software systems capable of autonomously processing data, learning from patterns, and executing tasks in dynamic environments. These agents leverage artificial intelligence techniques like machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), and optimisation algorithms to automate decision-making and improve outcomes.

By integrating AI agents into supply chain processes, organisations can:

  • Enhance operational efficiency.
  • Improve forecasting and inventory management.
  • Optimise logistics and transportation.
  • Drive sustainability initiatives.

Applications of AI Agents Across Supply Chains

Let’s explore how AI agents are being applied specifically in retail, manufacturing, and FMCG contexts, delivering tangible business benefits with detailed examples that explain their interaction with existing IT systems.

1. Demand Forecasting and Planning

Accurate demand forecasting is critical to maintaining the balance between supply and demand. AI agents utilise machine learning algorithms to analyse historical sales, market trends, and external factors like weather and economic conditions.

AI agents seamlessly integrate with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, advanced planning systems, and data lakes to draw on historical sales and external datasets.

  • Retail: An AI agent can ingest point-of-sale (POS) data from systems such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 or SAP ERP, regional sales trends, and even external factors like public holidays or local events. For example, a grocery retailer could predict a spike in soft drink sales during a major sports event and proactively adjust stock levels at stores near stadiums, triggering replenishment orders through the connected ERP system.
  • Manufacturing: AI agents can pull data from manufacturing execution systems (MES) and advanced planning systems like Blue Yonder or Kinaxis to forecast demand peaks and adjust production schedules. For example, a manufacturer producing seasonal products might use AI to adjust factory schedules to handle spikes, integrating the forecast directly into their ERP.
  • FMCG: AI agents can interact with Excel-based demand planning models and tools like Power BI dashboards to forecast demand. For instance, an AI system could generate SKU-level forecasts for snacks and beverages during summer months, feeding this data back into SAP IBP (Integrated Business Planning) for end-to-end visibility.

2. Inventory Optimisation

AI agents act as decision-support tools for inventory management by continuously monitoring stock levels, lead times, and sales trends across various IT platforms.

  • Retail: An AI inventory agent connected to WMS systems like Manhattan or Oracle’s NetSuite can dynamically reorder stock for high-demand items. For instance, the system could automate restocking popular sizes and colours of clothing based on sales trends, sending orders directly through the ERP to suppliers.
  • Manufacturing: Manufacturers benefit from AI agents integrated with SAP Material Requirements Planning (MRP) modules. These agents track raw material availability and supplier lead times, automatically adjusting replenishment orders when delays or shortages are anticipated.
  • FMCG: AI agents linked with Smart Excel tools can track product expiration dates and shelf-life constraints, prioritising shipments of perishable goods. For example, the agent could generate alerts for at-risk inventory and reallocate it to regions with higher demand using connected WMS or TMS systems.

3. Supply Chain Visibility and Connectivity

AI agents enhance end-to-end supply chain visibility by consolidating data from multiple systems, such as ERP, WMS, and TMS platforms, into actionable dashboards.

  • Retail: AI-powered dashboards built on tools like Microsoft Power Apps or Tableau can display shipment statuses, inventory levels, and delivery timelines. For example, an AI agent could highlight delayed shipments and suggest expedited shipping options, automatically communicating with transport providers through APIs.
  • Manufacturing: IoT-enabled sensors track raw materials and finished goods, feeding data into ERP systems like SAP S/4HANA. AI agents then analyse this data to identify bottlenecks or delays and propose corrective actions in real time.
  • FMCG: AI agents integrated with distributor management systems provide visibility into distributor performance. For example, the agent might identify consistent delivery delays and recommend alternative transport providers or route adjustments.

4. Predictive Maintenance

AI agents use IoT data to predict equipment failures and automate maintenance planning, working seamlessly with maintenance management systems (CMMS) and ERP modules.

  • Retail: AI agents monitoring warehouse robotics systems (e.g., automated storage and retrieval systems) can identify signs of wear, triggering work orders directly in a CMMS like IBM Maximo or SAP EAM (Enterprise Asset Management).
  • Manufacturing: IoT-enabled machinery connects to AI agents via platforms like Siemens MindSphere or GE Predix. For instance, when vibrations exceed safe thresholds, the AI system schedules maintenance tasks in SAP PM (Plant Maintenance).
  • FMCG: High-speed production lines can leverage AI-driven insights from sensors, which feed directly into ERP-connected maintenance modules, optimising scheduling and reducing unplanned downtime.

5. Logistics and Transport Optimisation

AI agents optimise logistics by connecting with transport management systems (TMS) and leveraging real-time data to streamline deliveries and routes.

  • Retail: AI can integrate with Oracle TMS or Descartes Systems to plan last-mile delivery routes. For example, the agent could adjust routes dynamically based on traffic conditions, updating drivers via mobile apps linked to the TMS.
  • Manufacturing: AI agents optimise inbound logistics by consolidating shipments using systems like Blue Yonder TMS, reducing transport costs by identifying the most efficient load combinations and routes.
  • FMCG: AI agents integrated with GPS tracking systems can dynamically adjust delivery schedules. For instance, during unexpected delays, the agent can reroute other vehicles and notify the ERP to adjust delivery timelines.

6. Procurement and Supplier Management

AI agents simplify procurement by analysing supplier data and automating routine tasks within ERP procurement modules or dedicated procurement tools like Coupa or Ariba.

  • Retail: AI agents can analyse historical purchase orders in SAP Ariba to benchmark supplier pricing. For example, the system might flag cost increases and recommend renegotiation.
  • Manufacturing: AI agents integrated with Oracle Procurement Cloud can monitor supplier performance metrics, such as defect rates, and suggest alternative vendors when performance drops.
  • FMCG: AI tools in Coupa can automate compliance checks for modern slavery or environmental standards, alerting procurement teams when risks are identified.

7. Risk Management and Disruption Response

AI agents mitigate supply chain risks by integrating with scenario-planning tools and external data sources for real-time insights.

  • Retail: An AI system might use data from IBM’s Weather Company to predict disruptions like storms, adjusting inventory levels at affected locations through connected ERP systems.
  • Manufacturing: AI agents simulate scenarios, such as a key supplier shutting down, by analysing procurement data in Oracle ERP and identifying alternate suppliers.
  • FMCG: Integrated with advanced planning systems, AI agents recommend alternate production schedules when raw material shortages occur, ensuring continuity in supply.

8. Sustainability Initiatives

AI agents drive sustainability by analysing environmental impact data from ERP systems and IoT devices.

  • Retail: AI agents connected to packaging design tools and ERP systems might recommend lighter materials for packaging, reducing carbon emissions during transport.
  • Manufacturing: AI tools can optimise energy usage by analysing data from IoT-enabled machines and suggesting efficiency improvements directly in the energy management module of the ERP.
  • FMCG: AI agents linked to waste management systems can track recycling rates and recommend process improvements, ensuring regulatory compliance.

9. Decision Support for Complex Processes

AI agents enhance decision-making by integrating data from advanced analytics platforms like QlikView and ERP systems.

  • Retail: AI agents could simulate the impact of promotional campaigns on inventory levels, adjusting replenishment plans in SAP IBP.
  • Manufacturing: AI tools can analyse production data in MES systems, identifying inefficiencies and suggesting workflow improvements.
  • FMCG: AI agents might evaluate trade promotion effectiveness, reallocating budgets across channels for maximum ROI.

10. Soft Automation for Repetitive Tasks

AI agents automate routine tasks by integrating with tools like Power Automate and Excel.

  • Retail: AI chatbots can connect to Oracle ERP to automate supplier communication for order tracking.
  • Manufacturing: AI agents integrated with Excel macros can handle repetitive data entry tasks, reducing manual errors.
  • FMCG: AI systems can generate compliance reports from SAP or Coupa, automating the creation and submission process.

How Trace Consultants Can Help

Trace Consultants is a leader in delivering tailored solutions that integrate AI agents into supply chains for ANZ organisations. With a proven track record in supply chain technology and operations, Trace Consultants enables businesses to leverage AI-driven innovations for measurable outcomes.

Technology Expertise

Trace Consultants provides state-of-the-art AI solutions through:

  • Microsoft Power Apps: Low-code tools that automate workflows and improve operational efficiency.
  • Smart Excel Solutions: Automating forecasting, replenishment, and reporting for seamless inventory and workforce planning.
  • Custom AI Integrations: Tailored systems designed to meet specific organisational needs.

Real-World Impact

  • Inventory Planning Tools: Helping clients optimise stock replenishment with forecasting algorithms.
  • Workforce Planning Solutions: Enabling right-sizing of labour and automating workforce scheduling.
  • Delivery Issues & Reporting Tools: Enhancing visibility and real-time performance management in logistics.

Holistic Solutions

By combining technical expertise with strategic insights, Trace Consultants addresses end-to-end supply chain challenges:

  • Demand forecasting and inventory optimisation.
  • Supplier and logistics management.
  • Sustainability and compliance initiatives.

For more information, visit Trace Consultants’ Technology Page and Solutions Page.

Unlock Your Supply Chain’s Potential with AI Agents

The integration of AI agents into supply chains is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a strategic imperative. For CIOs, CFOs, and CEOs in ANZ, the time to act is now. By leveraging the capabilities of AI agents and partnering with experts like Trace Consultants, your organisation can achieve lasting competitive advantages.

Are you ready to transform your supply chain? Contact Trace Consultants today to start your journey.

Strategy & Design
January 6, 2025

Solving Australia’s Productivity Puzzle: Targeted Investments in Supply Chains, Assets, Infrastructure, and Technology

Australia’s productivity growth has slowed, posing challenges to economic progress. This article explores how targeted investments in supply chains, assets, infrastructure, and technology can address inefficiencies and unlock the nation’s full potential.

Productivity growth has long been a cornerstone of economic progress, but Australia is facing a significant challenge in this area. With declining productivity growth rates, many industries are grappling with inefficiencies that hinder their global competitiveness. The solution lies in strategic, targeted investments across supply chains, assets, infrastructure, and technology. By leveraging these investments, Australia can unlock its potential, drive economic growth, and ensure long-term prosperity.

This article explores how Australia can address its productivity challenges by transforming key industries through smarter investments and innovative practices.

Understanding Australia’s Productivity Challenge

Australia’s productivity growth has slowed over the past decade, driven by multiple factors:

  1. Supply Chain Inefficiencies:
    • Disruptions and bottlenecks across industries like retail, manufacturing, agriculture, and mining impact overall efficiency.
    • Fragmented supply chain networks and a lack of visibility exacerbate delays and costs.
  2. Aging Infrastructure:
    • Many of Australia’s roads, ports, and transport networks struggle to keep up with modern demands, increasing costs and delays.
    • Poor infrastructure impacts the movement of goods and services, reducing competitiveness.
  3. Technology Gaps:
    • A lack of investment in advanced technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics limits efficiency and decision-making capabilities.
    • Many industries still rely on legacy systems, creating barriers to innovation.
  4. Workforce Challenges:
    • Labour shortages, skill gaps, and outdated workforce planning methods contribute to inefficiencies and rising costs.
    • The slow adoption of workforce management technologies further limits productivity gains.

To overcome these hurdles, Australia must adopt a coordinated, sector-specific approach to investments.

Supply Chains: The Backbone of Productivity

Supply chains play a pivotal role in determining an industry’s productivity. Optimising supply chains can lead to significant cost savings, faster delivery times, and better service levels.

Investment Areas to Enhance Supply Chain Productivity

  1. Advanced Planning Systems:
    • Technologies like demand forecasting and inventory optimisation can improve accuracy, reduce waste, and streamline operations.
    • Implementing AI-driven tools can help businesses anticipate demand changes and respond quickly to disruptions.
  2. End-to-End Visibility:
    • Investing in digital platforms that provide real-time visibility across supply chains ensures better tracking, coordination, and accountability.
    • Blockchain technology can further enhance transparency and trust among supply chain stakeholders.
  3. Sustainability Practices:
    • Integrating sustainable practices into supply chains reduces waste and environmental impact while improving efficiency.
    • Circular supply chains, where materials are reused or recycled, offer significant productivity gains.
  4. Collaboration and Integration:
    • Encouraging greater collaboration between suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers creates more seamless operations.
    • Shared data platforms and integrated systems reduce redundancy and improve overall efficiency.

Infrastructure: Building a Foundation for Growth

Australia’s infrastructure is vital for connecting industries, supporting supply chains, and enabling economic activity. However, much of the current infrastructure needs modernisation.

Key Infrastructure Investments to Boost Productivity

  1. Modernising Transport Networks:
    • Expanding and upgrading roads, railways, and ports to reduce congestion and improve the movement of goods and people.
    • Investing in intermodal facilities to streamline freight handling and improve supply chain connectivity.
  2. Smart Logistics Hubs:
    • Developing logistics hubs equipped with smart technologies can centralise and optimise distribution, improving overall efficiency.
    • Hubs can also facilitate collaboration among different businesses, reducing transportation costs.
  3. Energy Infrastructure:
    • Reliable and affordable energy is essential for industries like manufacturing and mining. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure ensures sustainability and cost efficiency.
    • Grid modernisation can support decentralised energy solutions and ensure consistent supply.
  4. Digital Infrastructure:
    • Enhancing broadband and telecommunications networks is critical for enabling digital transformation in both urban and regional areas.
    • Improved connectivity supports remote work, digital supply chains, and the adoption of advanced technologies.

Technology: The Game-Changer for Productivity

Technology is the catalyst for transformation, offering tools and solutions to overcome inefficiencies and unlock new opportunities.

Priority Technology Investments

  1. Automation and Robotics:
    • Automating repetitive tasks in industries like manufacturing and agriculture reduces costs, improves accuracy, and increases output.
    • Robotics can address labour shortages and perform tasks in hazardous environments, improving safety and productivity.
  2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
    • AI-driven tools can optimise everything from supply chain planning to customer service, delivering smarter, faster decision-making.
    • Predictive analytics enables businesses to anticipate challenges and mitigate risks.
  3. Internet of Things (IoT):
    • IoT sensors provide real-time data on machinery, inventory, and transportation, enhancing operational visibility and control.
    • Connected devices can monitor and optimise processes in real-time, reducing downtime and waste.
  4. Low-Code/No-Code Solutions:
    • These platforms enable organisations to develop customised applications quickly and cost-effectively, addressing specific productivity challenges.
    • Industries can deploy workflow automation, data capture tools, and reporting dashboards without needing extensive IT resources.

Workforce Optimisation: The Human Element of Productivity

A skilled, flexible, and well-managed workforce is essential for improving productivity. Investments in workforce planning and management are as critical as technology and infrastructure.

Strategies for Workforce Productivity

  1. Workforce Planning Tools:
    • Implementing advanced tools to forecast labour requirements ensures the right people are in the right place at the right time.
    • Demand-supply balancing techniques, borrowed from supply chain planning, can optimise workforce utilisation.
  2. Training and Upskilling:
    • Targeted investments in training programs can address skill gaps and prepare the workforce for new technologies and processes.
    • Partnerships between businesses, governments, and educational institutions can create pipelines for in-demand skills.
  3. Flexible Work Models:
    • Adopting flexible work arrangements can improve employee satisfaction and reduce absenteeism.
    • Technology-enabled remote work solutions ensure productivity is maintained across diverse locations.
  4. Performance Metrics and KPIs:
    • Defining clear productivity metrics helps track progress and identify areas for improvement.
    • Regular feedback loops and performance reviews keep employees aligned with organisational goals.

Cross-Industry Collaboration: A Holistic Approach

Fixing Australia’s productivity challenges requires a collaborative approach involving businesses, government, and industry bodies.

Steps for Effective Collaboration

  1. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs):
    • Joint investments in infrastructure projects can accelerate development timelines and share risks.
    • PPPs can also foster innovation in areas like energy, transport, and digital connectivity.
  2. Government Incentives:
    • Tax breaks, grants, and subsidies for technology adoption and sustainability initiatives encourage businesses to invest in productivity-enhancing projects.
    • Regulatory reforms can remove barriers to innovation and reduce compliance burdens.
  3. Industry-Led Initiatives:
    • Industry bodies can lead sector-wide initiatives to standardise processes, share best practices, and drive collective improvement.
    • Collaborative platforms can enable data sharing and joint problem-solving across value chains.

A Path Forward: Industry-Specific Opportunities

FMCG and Retail

  • Investment in demand planning and inventory management technologies can reduce waste and ensure shelves are always stocked.
  • Automation in warehouses and distribution centres enhances speed and accuracy.

Manufacturing

  • Upgrading to smart factories with IoT-enabled machinery and real-time monitoring systems increases efficiency and reduces downtime.
  • Investments in supply chain visibility tools ensure raw materials and components are available when needed.

Agriculture

  • Precision agriculture technologies, such as drones and IoT sensors, can optimise resource use and boost yields.
  • Improved transport and storage infrastructure reduce spoilage and improve market access.

Mining

  • Advanced planning systems and workforce automation tools improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Low-carbon technologies ensure sustainability and compliance with evolving regulations.

Healthcare

  • Digital transformation of supply chains ensures timely delivery of medical supplies, enhancing patient outcomes.
  • Workforce scheduling tools improve staff allocation and reduce burnout.

The Role of Trace Consultants in Driving Productivity

At Trace Consultants, we specialise in helping Australian businesses navigate productivity challenges through tailored advisory services and innovative solutions. Our expertise spans supply chain optimisation, technology integration, and workforce planning across a range of industries.

  • Supply Chain Advisory: We design efficient, resilient supply chains that reduce costs and improve service levels.
  • Technology Solutions: From advanced planning systems to IoT-based tools, we help businesses adopt technologies that deliver measurable results.
  • Workforce Optimisation: Our workforce planning frameworks and tools enable organisations to align labour resources with demand, driving efficiency and reducing costs.

By partnering with Trace Consultants, organisations can identify opportunities, implement transformative strategies, and achieve sustainable productivity gains.

Final Thoughts: Time for Action

Australia’s productivity challenges are significant but solvable. By making targeted investments in supply chains, assets, infrastructure, and technology, the nation can unlock economic growth, improve competitiveness, and secure a prosperous future.

Is your organisation ready to embrace the changes needed to drive productivity? Let Trace Consultants guide you on this journey.

Planning, Forecasting, S&OP and IBP
December 30, 2024

Streamline Demand Forecasting with Trace Consultants' .Planner Tool

Explore the features and benefits of Trace Consultants' .Planner tool, designed to simplify demand forecasting and replenishment planning. Learn how this user-friendly software can help your business stay ahead of demand fluctuations and make data-driven decisions to optimize inventory investment.

Affordable Advanced Planning: Trace Consultants’ .Planner Tool

In today’s competitive business environment, demand forecasting and replenishment planning are vital to operational success. Yet, many organisations shy away from implementing advanced planning solutions due to high costs associated with top-tier systems. Recognising this challenge, Trace Consultants developed the .Planner tool, offering robust functionality at a fraction of the cost of leading advanced planning solutions.

This article explores how the .Planner tool combines affordability with high-level functionality, empowering businesses to optimise their supply chains without stretching budgets.

The Cost Barrier in Demand Planning

Advanced planning systems (APS) are renowned for their capabilities, but they often come with significant implementation and operational costs. These systems are typically designed for large enterprises, leaving mid-sized organisations or those with tighter budgets struggling to justify the investment. The challenges include:

  • High Licensing Fees: Proprietary systems often require substantial upfront and ongoing licensing costs.
  • Complex Implementation: Integration with existing infrastructure can be time-consuming and expensive.
  • Over-Engineered Solutions: Many organisations end up paying for features they don’t need or use.

Trace Consultants’ .Planner tool is a cost-effective alternative that bridges the gap between functionality and affordability, making advanced planning capabilities accessible to a broader range of businesses.

Introducing the .Planner Tool

The .Planner tool delivers many of the same core features as top-tier APS but at a fraction of the cost. Designed to be user-friendly and highly customisable, the tool offers robust demand forecasting and replenishment planning capabilities tailored to the needs of mid-sized organisations and cost-conscious enterprises.

Key Features of the .Planner Tool

  1. Advanced Forecasting Algorithms
    • Predict demand using sophisticated algorithms tailored to identify patterns and trends.
    • Adaptive AI ensures that forecasts remain accurate even in volatile markets.
  2. Replenishment Automation
    • Automates order generation based on demand forecasts, inventory levels, and supplier lead times.
    • Minimises manual intervention, ensuring efficiency and reducing errors.
  3. Customisable Parameters
    • Offers the flexibility to set safety stock levels, reorder points, and other parameters based on business needs.
  4. Dynamic Dashboards
    • Real-time dashboards provide visibility into demand trends, inventory levels, and replenishment cycles.
    • Custom reports enable detailed analysis and informed decision-making.
  5. Cost-Effective Integration
    • Designed to integrate seamlessly with existing ERP and WMS systems without requiring heavy customisation or additional infrastructure investments.

How the .Planner Tool Stands Apart

While the .Planner tool offers similar functionality to high-end APS, its key differentiators lie in its cost-effectiveness and simplicity:

  • Lower Total Cost of Ownership: Affordable licensing and streamlined implementation keep costs low, enabling faster ROI.
  • Lean and Scalable: Focused on essential features that drive results, avoiding the complexity and bloat of more expensive systems.
  • Faster Deployment: Quick to implement, reducing the time and resources needed to go live.

Benefits of Choosing the .Planner Tool

  1. Affordable Advanced Functionality
    • Gain access to advanced forecasting and replenishment tools without the financial burden of premium APS.
  2. Optimised Inventory Management
    • Accurately forecast demand to avoid overstocking or understocking, leading to improved cash flow and reduced waste.
  3. Improved Operational Efficiency
    • Automate manual processes like replenishment planning, freeing up resources and reducing errors.
  4. Scalable Solution
    • Start small and expand usage as your business grows, ensuring long-term value.
  5. Customised for Your Business
    • Tailor the tool to meet your organisation's specific requirements, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.

Who Can Benefit from the .Planner Tool?

Retail

Retailers often struggle with seasonal demand and inventory overstocking. The .Planner tool allows them to:

  • Predict trends and manage promotions effectively.
  • Reduce markdowns and improve margins.

FMCG

Fast-Moving Consumer Goods companies face short product life cycles and high demand variability. The tool enables:

  • Enhanced alignment between inventory levels and production cycles.
  • Streamlined replenishment to meet fluctuating consumer demand.

Healthcare

For healthcare organisations, supply chain disruptions can have critical consequences. The .Planner tool helps:

  • Maintain adequate stock levels for essential supplies.
  • Minimise waste of perishable items.

Manufacturing

Manufacturers rely on accurate planning to manage production schedules and materials efficiently. The .Planner tool supports:

  • Improved synchronisation between supply and production.
  • Better cost control through precise demand forecasting.

How the .Planner Tool Works

  1. Data Collection
    • Gathers historical sales data, inventory records, and supplier lead times to build a robust dataset.
  2. Analysis
    • Leverages machine learning to forecast future demand and identify patterns.
  3. Recommendations
    • Provides actionable insights on replenishment needs, safety stock levels, and reorder points.
  4. Implementation
    • Simplifies the execution of planning decisions through integration with existing systems.

Integration with Trace Consultants’ Broader Solutions

The .Planner tool is part of Trace Consultants’ comprehensive .Solutions Suite, a collection of cost-effective, modular tools designed to address specific supply chain challenges. Other tools in the suite include:

  1. .DIFOT Tool
    • Monitors and improves supplier delivery performance.
  2. Delivery Issues & Reporting Tool
    • Tracks and resolves discrepancies in real-time, ensuring seamless delivery operations.
  3. Workforce Planning Tool
    • Streamlines demand forecasting and rostering to optimise workforce efficiency.

These solutions can be deployed individually or as a cohesive system, giving businesses flexibility based on their priorities and budgets.

Client Success Stories

Retail Case Study

A leading Australian retailer struggled with stockouts during seasonal promotions. After implementing the .Planner tool, they reduced stockouts and improved inventory turnover, achieving significant cost savings.

F&B Case Study

An FMCG company used the .Planner tool to refine its replenishment cycles, leading to a 20% reduction in inventory holding costs and a 15% improvement in forecast accuracy.

Healthcare Case Study

A hospital network integrated the .Planner tool into its procurement process, cutting inventory waste while ensuring critical medical supplies were always available.

Why Choose the .Planner Tool from Trace Consultants?

  1. Cost-Effective Excellence
    • Achieve near-parity with top-tier APS at a significantly lower cost.
  2. Quick ROI
    • Affordable implementation and operational costs lead to rapid returns on investment.
  3. Customised Solutions
    • Tailored to your unique business needs, avoiding unnecessary features or expenses.
  4. Proven Expertise
    • Trace Consultants’ experience spans multiple industries, ensuring best-in-class service and support.
  5. Simplicity and Scalability
    • Designed to be user-friendly and adaptable, supporting both small-scale and enterprise-wide implementations.

Conclusion

High costs should not be a barrier to adopting advanced planning solutions. Trace Consultants’ .Planner tool offers an affordable alternative that rivals the functionality of leading APS without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re a retailer managing seasonal promotions, an FMCG company optimising production, or a healthcare provider ensuring supply continuity, the .Planner tool is a scalable, cost-effective solution tailored to your needs.

With its emphasis on affordability, functionality, and ease of use, the .Planner tool is redefining what businesses can achieve with advanced planning systems. Explore how Trace Consultants can transform your supply chain at a cost that makes sense for your business.

https://www.traceconsultants.com.au/solutions#planner

What Makes a Management Consultant Great vs. Good: The Shift Towards Specialisation

The difference between good and great management consultants lies in their ability to offer specialised, tailored solutions. Discover how Trace Consultants helps businesses succeed with a specialised approach across supply chain strategy, forecasting, warehouse design, and more.
Learn more

Interview with Shanaka Jayasinghe: The Critical Role of BOH Logistics in Designing Sustainable Hospital Facilities

By considering these logistics principles, we can build hospital facilities that ensure consistency in patient care, clinical outcomes, and efficient operations for staff and patients.
Learn more

Sustainable Changes to Operating Models to Support Large Scale Cost Reduction Programs: An Interview with James Allt-Graham, Partner of Trace Consultants

Discover sustainable strategies for cost reduction with insights from James Allt-Graham, Partner at Trace Consultants.
Learn more

Navigating the Future of Planning: A Conversation with Mathew Tolley on Software Selection Excellence

Dive into an exclusive interview with Mathew Tolley, where we unravel the secrets to successfully selecting advanced planning software.
Learn more

Australia's Defence Supply Chains: Acqusition may win battles, but only Sustainment can win a war.

Dive into the critical role of Australia's defence supply chains in ensuring military readiness. This blog explores the importance of sustainment over acquisition, delving into heavy asset management, MRO logistics, and the key attributes that secure a competitive edge in uncertain times. Learn how demand planning, service delivery, and innovative logistics execution keep the ADF battle-ready.
Learn more

Interview with Tim Fagan: Navigating IT Transformation in Australian Businesses

Join us in a conversation with Tim Fagan on how Australian businesses are improving supply chain performance and reducing costs through tactical IT changes and best of breed systems.
Learn more

Interview with Emma Woodberry: Driving Sustainability Through Supply Chain Optimisation

Join Emma Woodberry in exploring how retailers and manufacturers can enhance sustainability and reduce transport costs through strategic supply chain optimisation.
Learn more