# Best Demand Planning Software for Small Business *By [Daniel Rivera](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/daniel-rivera)* Products classified in the overall Demand Planning category are similar in many regards and help companies of all sizes solve their business problems. However, small business features, pricing, setup, and installation differ from businesses of other sizes, which is why we match buyers to the right Small Business Demand Planning to fit their needs. Compare product ratings based on reviews from enterprise users or connect with one of G2's buying advisors to find the right solutions within the Small Business Demand Planning category. In addition to qualifying for inclusion in the Demand Planning Software category, to qualify for inclusion in the Small Business Demand Planning Software category, a product must have at least 10 reviews left by a reviewer from a small business. ## How Many Demand Planning Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 204 ### Category Stats (May 2026) - **Average Rating**: 4.44/5 - **New Reviews This Quarter**: 53 - **Buyer Segments**: Mid-Market 55% │ Small-Business 28% │ Enterprise 16% - **Top Trending Product**: RELEX (+0.019) *Last updated: May 18, 2026* ## How Does G2 Rank Demand Planning Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 3,600+ Authentic Reviews - 204+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Which Demand Planning Software Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Best for Small Businesses:** [SAP Integrated Business Planning](https://www.g2.com/products/sap-integrated-business-planning/reviews) - **Best for Mid-Market:** [SAP Integrated Business Planning](https://www.g2.com/products/sap-integrated-business-planning/reviews) - **Best for Enterprise:** [SAP Integrated Business Planning](https://www.g2.com/products/sap-integrated-business-planning/reviews) - **Highest User Satisfaction:** [Streamline](https://www.g2.com/products/gmdh-streamline/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [Streamline](https://www.g2.com/products/gmdh-streamline/reviews) --- **Sponsored** ### INTUENDI Intuendi is the AI-powered demand planning platform built for high-growth companies and scale-ups navigating complex supply chains. No more stockouts draining revenue. No more excess inventory eating cash flow. Intuendi helps you slash excess, simplify PO management, and empowers you with data-backed, precise recommendations so you can make faster, smarter decisions. Intuendi Labs a first-of-its-kind R&D program where your boldest supply chain and demand planning ideas become reality. We work closely with clients to co-create solutions and design tools to solve the exact challenges you’re facing in the real-world. The software is intuitive, and lightning-fast to implement, so you can scale quickly and without chaos. Intuendi isn’t just another tool. It’s your next competitive advantage, and a partner that builds with you. Intuendi is built for high-growth companies, startups, and scale-ups with complex supply chains who need smarter, faster demand planning and who want to scale quickly, without chaos. AI-powered Intuendi helps you cut stockouts, reduce excess, and simplify POs—all in one innovative tool built with you in mind. [Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=134&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=134&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=page_category&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=134&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=62004&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=134&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fdemand-planning&secure%5Btoken%5D=e28e744dfca4629fba60bd7fbb67c2b21ac5e00375c9c3616abfd1d8ecfd31cd&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fintuendi.com%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=company_website) --- ## What Are the Top-Rated Demand Planning Software Products in 2026? ### 1. [SAP Integrated Business Planning](https://www.g2.com/products/sap-integrated-business-planning/reviews) Respond to new market expectations with real-time supply chain planning capabilities and fulfill future demand profitably supply chain management. Powered by in-memory computing technology within SAP HANA, this cloud-based solution combines capabilities for sales and operations; demand, response, and supply planning; and inventory optimization. - Cloud deployment - Real-time scenarios and simulation - Social collaboration - Powerful predictive Analytics KEY BENEFITS: Achieve a rapid deployment Get up and running quickly with SAP Integrated Business Planning by using preconfigured process templates for an accelerated implementation. Empower employees with intuitive features Offer a unified, intuitive user experience with SAP Fiori and planning and simulation capabilities based on Microsoft Excel. Plan resources effectively Optimize resource efficiency by creating supply plans based on prioritized demands, allocations, and supply chain constraints. KEY CAPABILITIES: Integration with SAP Supply Chain Control Tower Gain end-to-end visibility of your supply chain, decision support, and fast corrective action through integration with SAP Supply Chain Control Tower. Forecasting and demand management Get full demand transparency with short-term, mid-term, and long-term forecasting. Take advantage of best-in-class capabilities for demand sensing and statistical forecasting. Inventory optimization Establish optimal inventory targets that enable you to maximize profits, while leaving a buffer to help you meet unexpected demand. Sales and operations planning Deliver a cross-departmental sales and operations plan that balances inventory, service levels, and profitability. Response and supply planning Optimize resourcing efficiency by creating supply plans based on prioritized demands, allocations, and supply chain constraints. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 209 **How Do G2 Users Rate SAP Integrated Business Planning?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind SAP Integrated Business Planning?** - **Seller:** [SAP](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sap) - **Company Website:** https://www.sap.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1972 - **HQ Location:** Walldorf - **Twitter:** @SAP (297,228 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/sap/ (141,341 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Who Uses This:** Consultant, Senior Consultant - **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Consumer Goods - **Company Size:** 57% Enterprise, 28% Mid-Market #### What Are SAP Integrated Business Planning's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Forecasting Accuracy (42 reviews) - Ease of Use (37 reviews) - Supply Chain Management (28 reviews) - Features (27 reviews) - Inventory Management (26 reviews) **Cons:** - Complexity (35 reviews) - Learning Curve (28 reviews) - Difficult Learning (21 reviews) - Complex Setup (18 reviews) - User Difficulty (17 reviews) ### 2. [Streamline](https://www.g2.com/products/gmdh-streamline/reviews) Streamline is an advanced AI-powered planning platform specifically designed for the retail, wholesale, distribution, and manufacturing sectors. This innovative solution enhances decision-making processes by integrating demand planning and forecasting capabilities. With Streamline, users can collaborate effectively, monitor performance metrics, and accurately forecast demand while leveraging cutting-edge planning technologies and strategies. Targeted primarily at manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, Streamline addresses the critical need for optimized inventory management. The platform offers automated demand forecasting, replenishment execution, and multi-location planning, making it an essential tool for businesses aiming to improve operational efficiency. By accounting for seasonality and supplier management, Streamline ensures that users can adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences, ultimately leading to better inventory control and reduced waste. Key features of Streamline include its AI-driven demand planning, which mimics human-like behavior for more accurate forecasting. This eliminates the reliance on traditional methods such as Excel spreadsheets or data from ERP systems. The inventory planning functionality optimizes stock levels and automatically updates replenishment plans, providing users with clear insights into what to order, how much, and when. Additionally, the production planning capabilities help reduce order quantities and transportation costs, streamlining the supply chain process and enhancing overall productivity. Streamline excels in material requirements planning (MRP) by generating comprehensive plans based on demand forecasts and bill of materials (BoM). This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses facing supplier unpredictability and disruptions in historical data, as it allows for effective planning even in the absence of prior sales data. By automatically rebalancing various factors, the platform minimizes the risks of overstock and stockouts, maintaining optimal inventory levels and improving cash flow management. With its robust supply planning capabilities, Streamline provides complete visibility and control over the supply chain, empowering users to make informed decisions that can significantly reduce operating costs and enhance profitability. By integrating these advanced features, Streamline stands out as a comprehensive solution for businesses seeking to elevate their planning processes and achieve greater operational success. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 246 **How Do G2 Users Rate Streamline?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Streamline?** - **Seller:** [GMDH](https://www.g2.com/sellers/gmdh) - **Company Website:** https://gmdhsoftware.com/ - **Year Founded:** 2009 - **HQ Location:** New York, US - **Twitter:** @GMDH_Streamline (1,216 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/gmdhstreamline (88 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Retail, Consumer Goods - **Company Size:** 47% Mid-Market, 44% Small-Business #### What Are Streamline's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Forecasting Accuracy (45 reviews) - Ease of Use (32 reviews) - Forecasting (31 reviews) - Automation (29 reviews) - Planning Efficiency (26 reviews) **Cons:** - Limited Customization (18 reviews) - User Difficulty (12 reviews) - Data Management Issues (11 reviews) - Implementation Complexity (10 reviews) - Slow Performance (10 reviews) ### 3. [Netstock](https://www.g2.com/products/netstock/reviews) Supply and demand planning made smarter with AI. Netstock empowers small and medium-sized businesses to optimize inventory and demand planning across 67 countries, managing over $25 billion in inventory value. Our solutions transform how companies balance supply and demand, reducing inventory levels by 25% while improving fill rates by 15% and saving 70% of time on ordering and forecasting. Why businesses choose netstock - Flexible forecasting – Forecast by product, group, sales channel, and key customers - Smart inventory planning – Balance stock levels and reduce risk with smart AI tools that quickly deliver real results - AI functionality -Quickly interpret dashboards, reports or at SKU level to spot and resolve issues before they happen - Balance risk - Factor in supplier and forecast risk every 24 hours from the order level down to the SKU level - Over 60 ERP integrations – Purpose-built to automatically convert raw ERP data into predictive insights to drive confident decision-making - Quick ROI – Free up cash tied up in slow-moving inventory from day one - Enterprise-grade security – ISO 27001-certified so your data remains secure - Complete support – Personalized onboarding, 24/7 assistance, and ongoing education With a global footprint of 2,400+ customers and 20,000+ users, Netstock empowers customers with increased visibility, faster planning, and smarter inventory decisions—ensuring they’re always prepared for disruptions or market changes. As we continue to innovate our software, we remain the trusted advisor and go-to solution for SMBs in inventory management and demand planning - making sure our customers have the right stock, in the right place at the right time. **Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 171 **How Do G2 Users Rate Netstock?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Netstock?** - **Seller:** [NETSTOCK](https://www.g2.com/sellers/netstock-3223aec8-82f5-4685-9a41-5ca79f1de8b4) - **Company Website:** https://netstock.com - **Year Founded:** 2010 - **HQ Location:** Boston, US - **Twitter:** @netstock (18 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/netstock (196 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Who Uses This:** Supply Chain Manager, Purchasing Manager - **Top Industries:** Retail, Wholesale - **Company Size:** 53% Mid-Market, 42% Small-Business #### What Are Netstock's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (18 reviews) - Forecasting Accuracy (17 reviews) - Inventory Management (17 reviews) - Inventory Optimization (13 reviews) - Forecasting (12 reviews) **Cons:** - Missing Features (10 reviews) - Data Inaccuracy (8 reviews) - Data Management Issues (7 reviews) - Difficult Learning (6 reviews) - Limited Customization (6 reviews) ### 4. [StockIQ](https://www.g2.com/products/stockiq/reviews) StockIQ is a modern supply chain planning platform designed to help organizations improve forecast accuracy, optimize inventory levels, and strengthen cross-functional planning. It was created by former supply chain practitioners who experienced the limits of spreadsheets and legacy systems firsthand. The platform connects directly to a company’s ERP and provides analytics, recommendations, and automated planning logic that help teams make faster, more confident decisions. Today’s supply chains face constant volatility. Planners must balance cost pressure from finance, service expectations from sales, and operational constraints across supplier networks. StockIQ is built to give teams a clear view of demand, inventory, supplier performance, and replenishment needs within one system, so they can respond quickly and reduce the amount of manual analysis required. Key capabilities include advanced forecasting, automated replenishment planning, safety stock optimization, supplier monitoring, and tools for SIOP collaboration. These functions are designed to provide planners with actionable insights rather than raw data, helping organizations reduce stockouts, increase service levels, and streamline planning cycles. Core features and capabilities • AI-driven forecasting that analyzes historical sales, seasonal patterns, and demand variability for accurate predictions up to 18 months ahead • Replenishment planning with dynamic safety stock calculations and automated purchase recommendations • Inventory optimization using item classification, service-level targets, and detailed visibility into projected stockouts and fill rates • SIOP support that brings sales, finance, and operations together on a shared view of demand and inventory • Supplier performance tracking through scorecards and exception alerts • Multi-location planning with recommendations to balance inventory across the network • Promotion and pricing impact modeling using elasticity curves and scenario analysis Value for supply chain teams • Reduces manual spreadsheet work and consolidates planning processes into one integrated environment • Improves decision-making with real-time insights on demand shifts, supply risks, and order priorities • Supports fast implementations through prebuilt ERP integrations and configurable workflows • Helps teams shorten planning cycles and focus on strategic analysis instead of manual data manipulation • Provides a user experience tailored to planners, built by professionals with hands-on supply chain backgrounds StockIQ is designed to function as a long-term planning partner rather than a one-size-fits-all tool. Its flexibility and practitioner-built workflows allow organizations to adapt the platform to their supply chain structure, helping teams operate with greater accuracy, alignment, and resilience. **Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 98 **How Do G2 Users Rate StockIQ?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.8/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind StockIQ?** - **Seller:** [StockIQ](https://www.g2.com/sellers/stockiq) - **Company Website:** https://www.stockiqtech.com/ - **Year Founded:** 2015 - **HQ Location:** Broomfield, Colorado - **Twitter:** @StockIQ - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/stockiq-technologies/ (34 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Consumer Goods, Wholesale - **Company Size:** 63% Mid-Market, 32% Small-Business #### What Are StockIQ's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Customer Support (28 reviews) - Ease of Use (27 reviews) - Helpful (24 reviews) - Forecasting Accuracy (21 reviews) - Inventory Management (19 reviews) **Cons:** - Missing Features (10 reviews) - Forecasting Limitations (7 reviews) - Limited Functionality (4 reviews) - Poor Reporting (4 reviews) - Challenges in Usage (3 reviews) ### 5. [EazyStock](https://www.g2.com/products/eazystock/reviews) EazyStock is a sophisticated inventory optimization and demand forecasting solution designed to help businesses effectively manage their stock levels and improve purchasing decisions. This tool is particularly beneficial for organizations facing challenges such as excess inventory, cash flow issues, low service levels, and frequent stockouts. By leveraging EazyStock, users can enhance their inventory visibility and streamline their operations, ultimately leading to more efficient inventory management. Primarily targeted at stock-holding businesses, EazyStock serves a wide range of industries, including retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. The software is particularly useful for companies that struggle with chaotic spreadsheets and manual processes, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies. EazyStock provides a structured approach to inventory management, allowing users to forecast demand accurately and stock the right items at the right time. This capability is essential for maintaining optimal stock levels and ensuring high service availability. EazyStock offers several key features that set it apart in the inventory management landscape. One of its standout features is its advanced demand forecasting algorithms, which factor in seasonality, promotions, and the sales lifecycle. This allows businesses to anticipate customer demand more accurately, reducing the risk of stockouts and overstock situations. Additionally, EazyStock automates the calculation of minimum and maximum stock levels, enabling users to optimize their inventory without tying up excess cash. EazyStock simplifies ordering, allowing users to place orders quickly and confidently. The software includes features such as scheduled supplier orders and an order fill-up function, which help businesses meet minimum order quantities (MOQs) while ensuring they only order stock likely to sell. This not only saves time but also minimizes waste and maximizes efficiency in the supply chain. EazyStock is committed to customer success, providing dedicated customer success managers who offer training and ongoing support to users at no extra cost. This personalized approach ensures businesses can maximize the software's benefits from day one and receive assistance whenever needed, enhancing the overall user experience. By implementing EazyStock, organizations can expect significant reductions in stock-related costs, improved service levels, and a more streamlined inventory management process. Connect your ERP Forecast demand Optimize inventory Order in seconds **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 64 **How Do G2 Users Rate EazyStock?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind EazyStock?** - **Seller:** [EazyStock](https://www.g2.com/sellers/eazystock) - **Company Website:** https://www.eazystock.com/ - **HQ Location:** Stockholm, SE - **Twitter:** @EazyStock (709 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/eazystock/ (28 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Who Uses This:** Purchasing Manager - **Top Industries:** Wholesale, Building Materials - **Company Size:** 51% Mid-Market, 48% Small-Business #### What Are EazyStock's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (16 reviews) - Customer Support (9 reviews) - Forecasting Accuracy (7 reviews) - Efficiency (5 reviews) - Inventory Management (5 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (4 reviews) - User Difficulty (4 reviews) - Poor Interface Design (3 reviews) - Data Management (2 reviews) - Difficult Onboarding (2 reviews) ### 6. [Blue Ridge Global](https://www.g2.com/products/blue-ridge-global/reviews) Experience supply chain software that exponentially improves planning precision. ELIMINATE GUESSWORK No more buying on spreadsheets, gut instinct, or outdated ERP systems. With Blue Ridge, you’ll always be prepared and in control to make fast, accurate decisions. MAXIMIZE INVENTORY PERFORMANCE Ready to save money while improving customer fill rates? Our software ensures you have the right inventory, in the right place, at the right time. You’ll realize ROI in months, not years. UNMATCHED PARTNERSHIP Blue Ridge’s unmatched LifeLine team, made up of industry experts, provides regular coaching to help accelerate the software’s adoption and performance. Learn more at https://blueridgeglobal.com/ or request a demo at https://blueridgeglobal.com/request-demo/. **Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 123 **How Do G2 Users Rate Blue Ridge Global?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Blue Ridge Global?** - **Seller:** [Blue Ridge](https://www.g2.com/sellers/blue-ridge) - **Company Website:** https://blueridgeglobal.com - **Year Founded:** 2007 - **HQ Location:** Johns Creek, US - **Twitter:** @BlueRidgeGlobal (836 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-ridge-global/ (584 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Who Uses This:** Buyer - **Top Industries:** Food & Beverages, Wholesale - **Company Size:** 52% Mid-Market, 24% Enterprise #### What Are Blue Ridge Global's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Customer Support (11 reviews) - Ease of Use (10 reviews) - Inventory Management (6 reviews) - Inventory Optimization (6 reviews) - Reporting (6 reviews) **Cons:** - Lacking Features (3 reviews) - Complexity (2 reviews) - Data Inaccuracy (2 reviews) - Improvement Needed (2 reviews) - Inefficiency (2 reviews) ### 7. [Service Optimizer 99+](https://www.g2.com/products/service-optimizer-99/reviews) SO99+ provides the AI-powered dynamic supply chain planning capabilities that allow customers to navigate uncertainty and make better decisions faster. By leveraging automation and employing powerful statistical, optimizing, and heuristic algorithms – including self-adaptive, frequency-based probabilistic forecasting and multi-echelon inventory optimization – this planning suite optimizes and positions on-hand inventory to best fulfill demand, reducing working capital investments while increasing service levels and profitability. Solutions include: - Demand Forecasting & Planning - Demand Sensing - Promotion Management - Inventory Optimization - Allocation & Replenishment - Production & Capacity Planning - Sales & Operations Planning **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 49 **How Do G2 Users Rate Service Optimizer 99+?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10) - **Inventory collaboration:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Forecast collaboration:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Comprehensive Planning:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Service Optimizer 99+?** - **Seller:** [ToolsGroup B.V.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/toolsgroup-b-v) - **Year Founded:** 1993 - **HQ Location:** Boston, MA - **Twitter:** @ToolsGroup (2,833 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/toolsgroup/ (321 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Consumer Goods, Automotive - **Company Size:** 47% Mid-Market, 29% Enterprise #### What Are Service Optimizer 99+'s Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Forecasting (10 reviews) - Forecasting Accuracy (10 reviews) - Inventory Management (9 reviews) - Ease of Use (8 reviews) - Implementation Ease (6 reviews) **Cons:** - Improvement Needed (4 reviews) - Lacking Features (3 reviews) - Poor Interface Design (3 reviews) - UX Improvement (3 reviews) - Complex Implementation (2 reviews) ## What Is Demand Planning Software? [Supply Chain & Logistics Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/supply-chain-logistics) ## What Software Categories Are Similar to Demand Planning Software? - [Inventory Control Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/inventory-control-software) - [Supply Chain Planning Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/supply-chain-planning) - [Sales & Ops Planning Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/sales-ops-planning) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right Demand Planning Software? ### What You Should Know About Demand Planning Software ### What is Demand Planning Software? Demand planning software (also known as demand forecasting software) automates the process of predicting consumer demand to optimize inventory levels. Demand forecasting entails analyzing buying behavior, seasonal patterns, and consumer trends to determine appropriate levels of stock. The ultimate goal is stock optimization—to not have too much or too little inventory.  Achieving optimal inventory is an important business task because overstocking can lead to dead stock (or unused and unsellable products), which creates unnecessary carrying costs and sales losses. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a shortage of products can result in consumer frustration over sellouts and unavailable products. Demand planning software successfully resolves these issues using analytical tools and collecting point of sale (POS) data to anticipate the necessary size of future reserves. Forecasting metrics can thus inform supply chain management, inventory control, and sales and operations (S&Op) strategy.  ### What are the Common Features of Demand Planning Software? Demand planning software solutions carry out the tasks involved in planning future inventory levels. Thus, all features of this software will in some way automate the process. **Product portfolio management:** Demand forecasting software must oversee the product lifecycle, from launch to end-of-life planning. Many products in a business’ portfolio are interdependent, so studying lifecycles in the context of an entire product mix is crucial. Understanding the portfolio mix, in turn, helps understand how demand for similar products affects the demand for another item.  **Statistical forecasting:** Using historical data to create predictive models is a central feature of demand forecasting software. These algorithms are developed in a meticulous statistical process of evaluating outliers, exclusions, and assumptions. Linear regression is often used to accomplish this, and it entails taking previous demand levels, plotting them on a graph, and creating a “line of best fit” to help predict where demand will be in the future. **Demand sensing:** Incorporating seasonal patterns and current events in the projection of consumer demand is also part of demand planning software. Current events could include disruptions to the supply chain due to weather, infectious diseases, government regulations, and historical trends. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning help accomplish this through inputting inflowing, real-time data into computer algorithms. **Trade promotion management:** Trade and marketing promotions naturally spark consumer interest and demand. Supply planning accounts for the likely increase in demand due to limited-time marketing initiatives, promotional tools, and pricing changes. Demand planning software will incorporate these into its statistical models. **AI and machine learning:** The difference between pen-and-paper supply chain planning that internal teams conduct and demand forecasting software is the presence of AI and machine learning to develop algorithms and statistical models. A core feature of this software is the ability of a computer to continuously incorporate real-time data and develop insights for effective supply chain strategies.  **Metrics:** The final stage of demand planning is assessing results to determine the accuracy and effectiveness of the project, often quantified as key performance indicators (KPIs). Demand planning tools help businesses track the attainment of KPIs throughout and after the forecasting process. Some key metrics include forecast accuracy, inventory turns, fill rates, costs of goods sold, and order fulfillment lead times. ### What are the Benefits of Demand Planning Software? Demand forecasting software effectively automates the process of inventory management to react to changes in consumer demand. What once was an imperfect human process can now be accomplished through computer algorithms and AI. This entails the following benefits: **Improved forecast accuracy:** The most crucial aspect of demand planning is the accuracy of the forecast. Finetuned reporting means more insight into anticipated company revenue. In addition, this software can use the preciseness of a current project to improve future projects. For example, if the algorithm is repeatedly underestimating or overestimating demand, it can recalibrate until it more closely matches future consumer demand. **Effective inventory levels:** Achieving the perfect balance between overstocking and understocking is the end goal of demand planning. With proper forecasting of stock demand, a business can ensure warehouses and brick-and-mortar stores have enough stock to prevent sellouts, but not too much that products pile up and become unsellable. Effective replenishment of stock, thus, leads to greater revenue.  **Efficient production scheduling:** When changes in customer demand are expected, businesses can better anticipate production scheduling, warehousing, and shipping. This is crucial because more streamlined warehousing leads to greater profits. **Optimized labor scheduling:** Labor is one of the most expensive costs associated with manufacturing, and planning systems help optimize this through allocating labor appropriately based on expected fluctuations in production. For example, more workers can be scheduled if a busy season is expected. On the other hand, a projection of shrinking demand would lead to fewer scheduled workers to prevent overpaying for labor. In addition, expectations on the timing of completion of projects can be set for employees to work toward when demand planning predicts a change in consumer demand. **Effective product launching:** For a new product to be successfully launched, its predicted demand must also be calculated. Demand forecasting solutions accelerate the idea-to-commercialization cycle by connecting high-level ideation with feasibility models and scenario-based profitability modeling. ### Who Uses Demand Planning Software? Multiple people are involved in the supply chain forecasting process. All of these professionals will come in touch with the functionalities of demand planning software. **Demand planners:** People who are trained in advanced statistical analysis and responsible for the punching of hard numbers are called demand planners. These professionals will work most closely with demand planning software, and they are responsible for logistics optimization. Demand planners are the ones who can speak the language of computers and know how to manipulate data to produce compelling insights in supply chain decisions.  **Sales and marketing:** Promotional events help drive consumer demand, so people involved in sales and marketing will be looped in during the production planning process to ensure future environmental variables help inform the statistical analysis. **Buyers or supply chain managers:** People involved in the purchasing process and management of the supply chain will need to be comfortable using demand planning software. When a restriction in market activity is expected, buyers can ensure fewer raw materials are purchased. On the contrary, when the market is expected to expand, buyers ensure enough tools and materials are available for replenishment and warehousing. **Product managers:** Executives who are responsible for the management of product suites and high-level business strategy can speak fluently about the product mix and items of interest. They assist in the demand planning process by acting as a subject matter expert on brand strategy, lead times for components, and production times.  #### Software Related to Demand Planning Software Demand planning software is but one facet of the logistics and supply chain industry, it is related to other software solutions that optimize the comprehensive process of selling, procurement, replenishment, and inventory management. [Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems:](https://www.g2.com/categories/erp-systems) ERP systems integrate all aspects of a production-based or distribution business, and they contain financial management, HR, supply chain management, and manufacturing and distribution. ERPs are perhaps most crucial to demand planning software because they provide the data that will be used to develop the forecast. [Supply chain planning software:](https://www.g2.com/categories/supply-chain-planning) This software helps plan and organize various aspects of the supply chain. It accomplishes this through detecting issues in the supply chain and predicting supply and demand from consumers. Thus, the predictive features that accompany this software can be used directly with demand planning software. [Inventory control software](https://www.g2.com/categories/inventory-control) **:** Software that assists in the maintenance of proper inventory levels is vital in the functioning of demand planning. This software often uses barcodes and radio-frequency identification when working with stock keeping units (SKUs). Thus, inventory control systems that trigger restocks or prevent overaccumulation of goods will improve the process of responding to consumer demand.  ### Challenges with Demand Planning Software Although demand planning software (and the demand planning process, in general) has the potential to significantly improve a business’ supply chain strategy, it is not without potential downsides and complications. **Complex and theoretical:** Some businesses, especially small businesses, believe demand planning software overcomplicate supply chain management. They may not have the manpower to accomplish the daunting process, and the abstract nature of demand planning may not seem worth it. **Cost:** The demand planning process can be very expensive, as it is the result of statisticians, warehousing, product managers, finance, and IT professionals who collaborate. Some companies simply may not have the financial resources to accomplish this. ### How to Buy Demand Planning Software #### Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for Demand Planning Software The first step in selecting the appropriate software for a company is to accrue a list of requirements that the software must satisfy. Buyers must begin with a long list of requirements that has more broad criteria, and then narrow down to a short list that has more urgent and industry-specific criteria. #### Compare Demand Planning Software Products **Create a long list** Buyers can begin creating a long list by mapping out a business’ demand stream and demand drivers, and display the input and output, as well as any technology that is already in use for the demand planning process. The availability of the following features should be considered when creating the list: - Available languages and global support - Ease of integration - Multiple calendar support, such as finance and production **Create a short list** Finally, to create the short list, buyers may consider the statistical analyses the business currently relies on to forecast demand, and then choose which software best fits the existing processes. - Full suite of statistical forecasting methods (i.e., ARIMAX, econometric, cluster analysis) - Forecast generation using hierarchies, event or pricing models, and what-if scenarios - Error measurement protocol - Data visualization tools - POS data capabilities **Conduct demos** Next, it is crucial to schedule product demonstrations with vendors of interest. Buyers should ask them to show the process of data input, statistical tests conducted, and visualization of data. #### Selection of Demand Planning Software **Choose a selection team** A selection team must be formed of various professionals throughout the business to ensure the winning software meets various criteria across organizational needs. These stakeholders include project managers, product managers, IT, and functional end users of the product. **Negotiation** Vendors will bring their strongest salespeople to the negotiating table, so one should be prepared to advocate for their business interests and needs.  **Final decision** The final decision will balance nice-to-haves with must-haves. The ultimate decision on which software to purchase should be a collaborative process with full team buy-in. Purchasing demand planning software is a major financial and human capital investment; as such, the whole planning team should approve. ### What Does Demand Planning Software Cost? Demand planning software tools are expensive, ranging anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000 per user. The number of bells and whistles and advanced features will determine the final price tag. More generally, this software costs about $5,000 to $6,000 for every $100,000 of revenue. However, a company with the resources to afford may find it to be a worthwhile investment due to  indirect cost savings and return on investment (ROI) for more effective supply chain management. #### Return on Investment (ROI) ROI is the time it takes for the cost incurred by an investment to be negated through increases in profitability and efficiency. Demand planning is a long, complicated, and expensive process, so it may take a while to reach ROI. According to G2 data as of September 16, 2021, businesses achieved ROI in the following intervals with demand planning software: - 18.6% accomplished ROI in less than six months - 37.2% accomplished ROI between seven and 12 months - 20.9% accomplished ROI between 13 and 24 months - 4.7% accomplished ROI between 24 and 36 months - 4.7% accomplished ROI between 37 and 48 months - 9.3% accomplished ROI after 48 months - 4.7% never accomplished ROI  ### Demand Planning Software Trends **Point of sale (POS) data** An important trend in the demand planning software market is the integration of real-time POS data into the forecasting process. This means that when an item is scanned at checkout, the data is automatically integrated into algorithms and data sets. **Internet of things (IoT) devices** IoT devices improve demand planning by providing real-time updates on the status of raw materials in the production process and the movement of inventory. It can also monitor sales as they happen, allowing the distributors to quickly replenish items that are selling faster than the model predicted.