Strategic Demand Planning and Inventory Optimization Through Predictive Analytics

About the Course

This comprehensive training program equips supply chain professionals with advanced capabilities in demand planning and inventory optimization. Participants will master predictive analytics techniques, machine learning algorithms, and data-driven methodologies to forecast demand accurately, optimize inventory levels, and enhance overall supply chain performance. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical, real-world applications that organizations can implement immediately.

Designed for professionals managing complex supply chains, this program bridges the gap between traditional planning methods and modern predictive analytics approaches. You'll learn to leverage historical data, market trends, and advanced modeling techniques to make informed decisions that reduce costs while improving customer service levels.

Course Objectives

• Understand fundamental and advanced forecasting methodologies, including time series analysis, regression models, and machine learning approaches.
• Apply predictive analytics tools and platforms to develop accurate demand forecasts and identify demand patterns and anomalies.
• Design and implement optimal inventory strategies including safety stock calculations, ABC analysis, and service level optimization.
• Integrate real-time data sources and build automated demand planning systems that adapt to market changes.
• Measure forecast accuracy, inventory performance metrics, and establish continuous improvement processes.
• Navigate common challenges in adoption including data quality, system integration, and stakeholder alignment.

Target Audience

• Supply chain managers and planners seeking to enhance forecasting and inventory management capabilities.
• Business analysts and data professionals involved in demand planning operations and optimization projects.
• Operations and procurement leaders responsible for inventory investment and service level decisions.
• IT and systems professionals implementing demand planning platforms and analytics infrastructure.
• Anyone managing supply chain complexity across multiple products, locations, or distribution channels.

What You Will Benefit as a Learner

• Gain practical skills to implement predictive models that improve forecast accuracy by 15-25% compared to traditional methods.
• Learn frameworks for inventory optimization that reduce carrying costs while maintaining service levels and customer satisfaction.
• Develop the ability to identify and leverage data sources, build analytics dashboards, and communicate insights to stakeholders.
• Acquire hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and platforms used in modern supply chain analytics.
• Master techniques to diagnose forecast errors, implement bias correction, and establish continuous improvement cycles.
• Build confidence in presenting data-driven recommendations and driving organizational change in planning processes.

Training Methodology

• Interactive workshops combining theory, case studies, and real-world scenarios from diverse industries and supply chain contexts.
• Hands-on lab exercises using predictive analytics tools, software platforms, and sample datasets to build practical competency.
• Small group discussions and peer learning where participants share challenges, solutions, and best practices from their organizations.
• Live demonstrations of forecasting algorithms, model-building processes, and inventory optimization techniques in action.
• Access to templates, frameworks, implementation guides, and tools that participants can customize and deploy in their environments.
• Collaborative problem-solving sessions where teams tackle supply chain challenges using methodologies learned throughout the program.