Supply Chain planning and coordination is complex process which Caladwich can help simplify through advanced modeling and methodologies. Beyond our proprietary modeling systems, our team can help build out all the necessary components to develop demand planning and forecasting capabilities. Our team differentiates by being able to utilize data more effectively to build a more accurate planning picture through the following techniques:
Data Identification – We identify the data that can be used to build an accurate picture of the spend, and key information including amount of spend, type, actual purchase, date, and source of funds. Data can be electronic, paper, and from a variety of systems including excel, ERP, or dedicated purchase platforms. Purchase order, Purchase requisitions, and spend contracts are where most of the data is found, but they can be also found in a variety of systems depending upon the agency. Our key differentiators include ensuring the all sources of data are found, translating the data to a common format (which is time consuming); and creating a common picture using different data sources.
Data Cleansing – Using previously identified data sources, cleansing includes activities such as putting data into a common format, filling in missing gaps through alternative information sources, classification of spend types, and duplication removal. Key differentiators are the ability to conduct analysis to ensure data is comprehensive and classified correctly.
Forecast models – Our teams use proprietary forecast models from the spend created through the cleansed data. By taking previous spend into account, the goal is to create an accurate picture of future spend through multiple types of analysis and factors. This includes seasonality (time of year), growth factors, market conditions, and other specific factors. We are able to develop more advanced models through type of complexity of analysis, granularity of time factors, and accuracy of forecasting.
Forecasting automation – Use of automation to create real time forecasting models. Our team can create automatic, real time models and dashboards to allow much more accurate planning with less manual labor. This includes automatic tracking of spend, updates from outside sources for market conditions, integration of data sources, and computerized forecast models.