Despite the availability of advanced software solutions that are purpose-built for supply chain planning, many companies still rely on manual processes and use generic tools like Excel to do their planning. This outdated method leads to siloed operating structures that hinder data sharing with other groups. Lack of actionable, real-time data limits cross-functional visibility and collaboration and makes it challenging for planners to make fast, informed decisions. The leading supply chain planning platforms vary in their approach and the specific features they provide, but they are all designed to meet the specific needs of supply chain planners. They provide planners across every discipline with sophisticated tools that reduce manual effort, minimize errors and maximize planning effectiveness. Typically cloud-based, these solutions feature easy-to-use interfaces and often include separate applications or modules targeting the requirements of the different functional planning groups and roles. These may include modules for supply planning, inventory planning, demand planning, production planning, capacity planning, etc. One of the key benefits of the leading supply chain planning software solutions is their ability to analyze large data sets using advanced technologies like AI and machine learning. Planners can use these capabilities to identify key trends and patterns and run simulations and what-if scenarios, which can greatly improve the accuracy of plans and forecasts and enable them to be more agile when dealing with volatility in the supply chain. Some of the key features and capabilities for supply planning include: Enhanced visibility across the supply chain, which enables planners to continuously monitor demand plans to determine whether they can support material and capacity constraints Intelligent automation capabilities to assist with complex decision making, such as when it makes sense to use an alternate source for parts Instant multi-level, multi-site bill of material (BOM) explosions to achieve demand and supply balancing across the network in seconds Advanced analytics, which help planners simulate scenarios and understand trade-offs between various plan options at all levels Automation that accelerates the planning process and reduces manual tasks with configurable and expandable algorithms and analytics Intuitive dashboards that give planners a real-time view of supply chain health and key business metrics from a single pane of glass Automatic alerts that notify planners when there’s a misalignment between supply and demand, which enable them to respond quickly Collaboration tools that make it simple to work more effectively with operations, procurement, and other professionals involved in the different aspects of supply chain planning and execution