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| Smart Software Ships SmartForecasts Version 7 Smart Software is shipping Version 7 of its flagship product, SmartForecasts. This latest version includes new conversion capabilities, as well as embedded parameter tools for further automating the forecasting process by reducing the number of repetitive planning tasks. These new features help ensure more accurate forecasting and inventory planning results during every forecasting session, and enable better cross-functional use of these results among corporate departments. SmartForecasts 7 includes a new set of conversion capabilities that enables users to dynamically switch between forecasts in units and dollars, or any other defined set of measures and conversion factors. These features significantly enhance the S&OP process by increasing planning flexibility and allowing more effective collaboration to take place between departments. For example, one department can forecast in its preferred measure—such as units, and compare their forecasts to those of another department that forecasts in a different measure—such as dollars. In addition, SmartForecasts 7 greatly speeds up the forecasting process, especially when there are many thousands of items that need to be forecasted on a regular basis. The software employs a new, automated set of "Forecast and Selection Parameters" tools that reduce forecasting tasks previously taking hours to complete, to just a few minutes. With these tools, users can pre-specify and embed parameter values (such as varying lead times and service levels) for thousands of individual product items to be used each time forecasts are generated. This capability increases consistency and accuracy by ensuring that the same set of SKU-specific parameters will be applied from one forecasting session to the next. The Forecast and Selection Parameters, as well as conversion capabilities, are available for both database and file-based systems. These new features expand SmartForecasts' overall utility making it easier for organizations to manage the S&OP and inventory planning processes. SmartForecasts is a cross-industry solution for demand forecasting, planning, and inventory optimization. It integrates easily with host databases, such as Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and IBM DB2, as well as ERP and SCM systems like Epicor, Adonix, and SAP. SmartForecasts contains award-winning, patented technology for forecasting hard-to-forecast items with intermittent, or "slow-moving", demand. This unique technology, which yields nearly 100 percent accurate estimates of inventory stocking requirements for any lead time and desired service level, is being used by scores of companies with service parts operations, as well as industrial tools and capital goods manufacturers. write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Computing News :: home page |