Unit forecasts can be easily exported to an order management system such as an ERP

Description

The system must allow, via any type of export, forecasted units to be exported for any set of products and be imported easily into an ERP. It eliminates manual data entry, reduces human error and improves accuracy in the planning and ordering process. This feature ensures that the demand forecasts calculated in the CPM software are systematically and accurately reflected in the order management system to streamline the supply chain and production planning.

Example Use Case

Scenario: A global manufacturing company uses CPM software for detailed planning and forecasting of its product units. However, these forecasts need to be manually entered into an ERP system for the scheduling and execution of production. This manual process is time-consuming, prone to errors, and impedes an agile response to demand changes.

Solution: By enabling the export of unit forecasts from the CPM software to the ERP system, the manufacturer automates this process, enhancing accuracy, speed, and efficiency. Updates in forecasts are automatically reflected in production plans, enabling the company to respond swiftly to changes in demand.

Considerations

The exports in this case can come in the form of a CSV, direct API load, SFTP batch, and so on. If you have a specific requirement regarding the type of data transfer, make sure to articulate that during the demonstration. Not all tools will allow a push from a forecasting tool directly into an ERP without intermediate steps.

If exporting via CSV, make sure the system outputs one file. It will be a hassle to export multiple files, then integrate them yourself before uploading to an ERP. Some systems will require you to export each product's demand forecast separately. That could be hundreds or thousands of sheets. Make sure this can be consolidated into one.

In cases where your unit forecast is a finished good, make sure your ERP can break that down into components upon upload. If not, you may need to configure the CPM tool to forecast down to the component level.

Questions to Ask a Vendor

• Integration Capability: How does the push of the forecast from your product to our ERP work? Will we need to export and import a file?
• Automation: Can the export process be automated, and how is this set up?
• Unit Forecast Detail: Can the system export both finished goods counts and components required for manufacturing?