Kinaxix launches advanced AI supply planning solution
TECH & AI
“ OFTEN THE PROBLEM WITH AI AND ML PROGRAMMES IS THAT SENIOR MANAGERS START FROM THE WRONG PLACE ”
DAVID LOSEBY GLOBAL CPO , AUTHOR & SPEAKER
Kinaxix launches advanced AI supply planning solution
Supply Chain software specialist Kinaxis recently released an advanced AI solution for supply chain planning . Part of the Kinaxis RapidResponse platform , Planning . AI automatically fuses the best combination of heuristics , optimisation and machine learning ( ML ).
Planning . AI leverages ML to gain insights from vast amounts of internal and external data , then uses analytics to improve forecasting across short and long-term horizons .
When combined with Kinaxis ' planning solutions , this eliminates data silos , and balances demand and supply in real-time . It also allows for scenario management in the event of market disruptions .
" Supply chain planners often have to choose between making an accurate decision and making a fast one ," says John Sicard , CEO of Kinaxis . " Planning . AI eliminates that struggle by empowering people to make fast , accurate decisions through the use of multiple advanced analytical approaches .”
He says the company has an automated online learning management system that can be used for personal development plans , as well as a global reporting system that can be accessed by any Crane employee , at any time , from their smartphone .
Slater continues : “ In fleet management , automation has reduced wait-times and the matching of loads . The more the wheel turns , the more money people make – and this contributes significantly to their retention .
When it comes to automation , Slater believes the key to success is always leadership : “ The worst thing is to make the process more complex than necessary . This will always be an industry built and run by people . Technology does not replace leadership .”
Successfully rolling out automation in white-collar supply environments , such as procurement , is arguably more nuanced and layered than in blue collar settings , such as warehouses . Yet , says Loseby , this doesn ’ t stop many companies from trying to run before they can walk .
“ Typically , organisations don ' t assess their digital maturity ,” he says . “ If you want to go straight from a paper-based procurement system to an all-singing , all-dancing automated system , the best advice I can give you is : don ' t , because you ' ll kill your organisation .
114 July 2022