In a recent exploration of Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), expert Doug addresses a complex question: What data is critical for effective S&OP? He emphasizes the importance of data storytelling, focusing on aligning data with strategic objectives for product families, such as growth, market share, and service level improvements. Doug outlines the necessity of an actionable plan that integrates sales forecasts, operation plans, capability, and inventory plans to achieve these objectives.
Highlighting actionable data's role, Doug insists on the need for plans to reflect strategic objectives accurately and to be evaluated for their effectiveness in meeting demand and production targets. He underscores the importance of understanding the assumptions behind plans and the risks involved.
Doug recommends a structured approach to data analysis:
Contextualizing Data: Analyzing historical performance against current plans to spot risks and changes. - Read the article about monitoring performance of the plans here.
Consolidating Data for a Complete Picture: Gathering demand data, shipment plans, production capabilities, and inventory plans for each product family. - Read article about supporting data here.
Standardizing Data Presentation: Utilizing a "5-Section sheet" covering bookings, shipments, backlog, production, and inventory to provide a clear narrative of the operational status and strategic alignment. - Read article about a effective executive presentation here.
Doug's guidance offers a concise blueprint for leveraging data in S&OP processes, ensuring organizations can effectively narrate their strategic journey and operational readiness, crucial for informed decision-making and achieving strategic goals.