Optimising Demand Management and Forecasting

Training Overview

Optimising Demand Management and Forecasting is crucial for organisations striving to meet market demand efficiently while avoiding excessive inventory costs. This training programme is designed to help participants master the balance between scientific forecasting methods and expert judgment, ensuring operational success in an uncertain market environment.

Participants will explore strategies to align organisational capacity—resources, inventory, and workforce—with demand management goals, enabling cost-efficient and streamlined operations.

Training Objectives

By the end of this programme, participants will:

• Understand the Fundamentals of Demand Management: Grasp key concepts, roles, and processes in demand forecasting.
• Master Forecasting Techniques: Learn qualitative and quantitative approaches for accurate demand predictions.
• Develop Risk Mitigation Skills: Incorporate risk management strategies into forecasting and operational planning.
• Enhance Cross-Functional Collaboration: Build leadership and coordination skills for effective communication across teams.
• Optimise New Product Forecasting: Acquire techniques for predicting demand for new product launches with greater accuracy.

Training Structure

Day 1: Key Forecasting Processes and Functions

• Understanding an Effective Forecasting Process
• Identifying Challenges and Setting Goals
• Leadership and Cross-Functional Coordination
• Refining Forecast Models and Ensuring Transparency
• The Bullwhip Phenomenon: Strategies to Reduce Demand Variability

Day 2: Key Inputs and Outputs of a Demand Plan

• Maximising Profit Potential with Strategic Planning
• Risk Management in Forecasting
• Aligning Forecasts with Operations Planning
• Qualitative and Quantitative Forecasting Models

Day 3: Time Series and Cause-and-Effect Models

• Time Series Models: Assumptions, Components, and Limitations
• Regression Models for Cause-and-Effect Analysis
• Developing Models and Addressing Critical Assumptions

Day 4: Reducing Forecasting Errors

• Measuring and Interpreting Forecast Error Metrics
• Identifying and Resolving Errors
• Exception-Based Forecasting and Its Benefits
• Linking MAPE/Bias to Customer Service and Inventory KPIs

Day 5: Forecasting for New Products and Final Integration

• Success Factors for New Product Forecasting
• Collaborative Forecasting Approaches: Independent, Centralised, and Consensus Models
• Avoiding Siloed Forecasting: Achieving Unified Planning
• Managing Demand Fluctuations with Data Analysis

Certification and Conclusion

Participants will recap key learnings through assessments, quizzes, and case studies. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to all participants who successfully complete the programme.

Training Materials

• Comprehensive Training Manual
• Case Studies and Practical Exercises
• Online Resources for Further Learning

Who Should Attend

This training is designed for:

• Demand Planners
• Supply Chain Managers
• Operations Managers
• Project Managers and Coordinators

Why Choose KE Leaders?

• Expert Guidance: Learn from industry-leading trainers with real-world experience.
• Interactive Sessions: Practical exercises ensure skills are immediately applicable.
• Up-to-Date Content: Stay informed about the latest trends in demand management and forecasting.

Key Takeaway

Participants will leave the training with the skills to optimise demand management processes, improve forecasting accuracy, and drive operational success in their organisations.