APPROACH
To address this, the team at Tredence used the following approach:
- Outbound Forecast: Outbound forecasts are generated using machine learning algorithms for each FC at Category level to enable the clients to do operations planning a month in advance
- Carrier Scheduler: Carrier scheduler is built based on the nuances corresponding to each carrier to enable the client plan outbound shipment a month in advance at trailer level on an hourly basis
- Interactive Solution: Interactivity in the solution is incorporated to adjust the forecast numbers based on any trade promotions or FC ramp-up at all the levels
KEY BENEFITS
- FC Planning: This tool helps FC Managers to plan labour in advance. It provides quantity forecast for the next 8 weeks
- Carrier Planning: This tool helps in trailer scheduling at hourly level. The scheduling information is provided for different carriers as well
- Merchant Targets: This tool incorporates the targets set by Merchants and breaks it down at day level for better planning
RESULTS
- It brings all the business units for the first time under the same platform
- It provides 2 types of forecast, one from the time series model and other utilizing the merchant targets giving the flexibility to compare and examine Merchant targets
- It provides flexibility to adjust the expected quantity (for various events or incorporate FC downtime)