Demand Planning and Forecasting for Supply Chain Optimization Course

Introduction

In these volatile, complex, and highly competitive markets, accurate demand planning and forecasting is central to achieving supply chain efficiency and responsiveness. Organizations require agile, data-driven approaches to predict future demand, align production and distribution processes, and reduce costs while maximizing customer satisfaction.

This course provides participants with practical knowledge and tools for designing robust demand planning frameworks, leveraging statistical methods, and integrating predictive analytics to improve forecast accuracy. Emphasis is placed on the alignment of forecasting with inventory, procurement, production, and strategic planning processes.

Participants will also explore emerging trends such as AI-driven forecasting, demand sensing technologies, machine learning, and the role of real-time data in adapting to market disruptions and consumer behavior shifts.

Target Participants:

• Supply chain managers and analysts
• Procurement and inventory managers
• Demand planners and forecasters
• Logistics and operations professionals
• ERP and data analysts
• Business planners and strategists
• Anyone involved in supply chain planning and optimization

Duration

5 Days

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the role of demand planning in the supply chain.
• Apply statistical and advanced forecasting methods.
• Utilize demand sensing and predictive analytics tools.
• Improve forecast accuracy and reduce inventory risks.
• Align forecasting with supply chain operations.
• Incorporate AI/ML in demand forecasting.
• Respond effectively to disruptions and shifts in demand.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Demand Planning in Supply Chains

• The importance of demand planning
• Demand vs. sales forecasting
• Key metrics and performance indicators
• Challenges in demand planning

Forecasting Fundamentals and Methods

• Quantitative vs. qualitative forecasting techniques
• Time series analysis and moving averages
• Regression analysis and causal models
• Forecast error metrics (MAPE, MAD, etc.)

Module 2: Advanced Forecasting Techniques and Tools

• Scenario-based forecasting
• Demand segmentation
• Software and tools overview (e.g., SAP IBP, Oracle, Excel, Python-based models)

Demand Sensing and Real-Time Forecasting

• What is demand sensing?
• Using real-time data for agile forecasting
• Role of IoT, POS data, and web/social signals
• Inventory visibility and responsiveness

Module 3: Integrating Forecasting with Inventory and Operations

• Collaborative Planning, Forecasting and Replenishment (CPFR)
• S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning)
• Aligning demand plans with procurement, production, and logistics
• Bullwhip effect and mitigation strategies

Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning in Forecasting

• Overview of predictive analytics and ML models
• Algorithms used in demand forecasting (ARIMA, Random Forest, Neural Networks)
• Data preparation and feature selection
• Use cases and success stories

Module 4: Forecasting in Times of Disruption

• Dealing with uncertainty and supply shocks
• Forecasting during pandemics, natural disasters, and geopolitical shifts
• Scenario planning and risk assessment
• Building resilient forecasting models

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

• Linking demand planning with sustainability goals
• Reducing waste and overproduction
• Ethical use of data and transparency

Module 5: Practical Applications and Case Studies

• Industry-specific examples (FMCG, pharma, retail, manufacturing)
• Group exercises and real-world simulations
• Tools benchmarking and selection

Action Planning and Course Wrap-Up

• Building an implementation roadmap
• Performance measurement and continuous improvement
• Final Q&A, group presentations, and course evaluation

Training Methodology:

• Interactive instructor-led sessions
• Hands-on exercises and real-time simulations
• Group discussions and peer learning
• Case studies and benchmarking tools
• Use of forecasting software/tools (Excel, Power BI, Python, etc.)

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com Tel: +254 721 331 808

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Upskill Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Upskill certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com, +254 721 331 808

Terms of Payment

Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 3 working days before commencement of the training so as to enable us to prepare better.