Stock Management, Forecasting, and Demand Planning

Efficient stock, demand planning: Learn forecasting, control, and optimization.

Please inquire for pricing Available In-class

Date	Venue	Duration
16 - 18 September 2026	Sandton	3 Days
23 - 27 November 2026	Cape Town	5 Days

Course Introduction

Effective demand planning and stock control are critical components of Supply Chain Management (SCM), enabling organizations to enhance forecast accuracy, maintain optimal inventory levels, and boost profitability by minimizing expenses. Proper execution of these processes eliminates the risks of stock shortages and surplus inventory, streamlining operations. Demand planners, often working behind the scenes, face complex challenges due to the dynamic and uncertain nature of their role. However, when performed successfully, these efforts unlock significant opportunities for organizations to optimize their supply chains.

This Stock Management, Forecasting, and Demand Planning course delves into key demand planning theories, models, and best practices, equipping participants with the tools to manage diverse scenarios and ensure a steady flow of inventory at the lowest possible cost.

Course Objectives

By the end of the Stock Management, Forecasting, and Demand Planning course, participants will:

Understand and apply the principles of stock management and forecasting.
Use scientific methods to predict demand and manage inventory lead times.
Develop efficient inventory classifications and cost-optimized strategies.
Create actionable plans for safety stocks and reorder points.

Who should attend?

Inventory planners, supply chain professionals, and materials managers.
Supervisors and staff in purchasing, stores, and distribution functions.

Training Methodology

Our diverse instructional approaches ensure effective learning:

– Lectures & Presentations: Engage with expert-driven, stimulating content.
– Course Material: Access well-crafted supporting resources.
– Group Work: Collaborate on discussions and case studies for practical insights.
– Workshops & Role-Play: Participate in immersive, scenario-based activities.
– Practical Application: Focus on applying theoretical knowledge in real situations.
– Post-Training Support: Receive extensive support after training for skill implementation.

Training Outline

Module 1: Fundamentals of Stock and Supply Chain Management

Introduction to Stock Management
- Scope and objectives of supply chain management (SCM)
- Role of inventory in supply chain success
- Objectives of inventory planning and stock control
- Reasons for holding inventory
- Push vs. Pull inventory systems
- Customer service and its connection to inventory management
- Introduction to inventory cost structures
Inventory Information Systems
- Key considerations for effective systems
- Digital tools supporting SCM efficiency

Activities: Case study discussions on inventory management systems and group brainstorming.

Module 2: Classification and Management of Inventory

Inventory Types and Classifications
- Types of inventory (raw materials, WIP, finished goods, etc.)
- ABC Classification model and its applications
- Using ABC ranking for decision-making
Optimizing Stock Management
- Best practices in stock specification and cataloguing
- Developing accurate inventory records

Activities: Workshop on inventory classification and cataloguing exercises.

Module 3: Forecasting Demand and Lead Time Management

Forecasting Techniques and Tools
- Dependent vs. independent demand
- Demand patterns and influencing factors
- Time series forecasting methods
  - Moving average
  - Exponential smoothing
- Measuring and improving forecast accuracy
- Seasonal demand adjustments
Lead Time Analysis
- Factors affecting lead time
- Methods for lead time control

Activities: Hands-on forecasting using provided datasets and lead time simulations.

Module 4: Inventory Costs and Financial Implications

Understanding Inventory Costs
- Cost of items: purchasing, carrying, and stock-out costs
- Calculating and analysing inventory cost elements
Economic Models for Inventory Management
- Economic Order Quantity (EOQ)
- Evaluating quantity discounts

Activities: EOQ calculations and exercises on cost optimization in inventory systems.

Module 5: Advanced Inventory Planning and Safety Stock Strategies

Inventory Systems and Safety Stock
- Objectives and importance of safety stocks
- Determining the Reorder Point (ROP)
- Developing strategies for seasonal and unexpected demand
Integrative Stock Planning
- Aligning inventory planning with organizational goals
- Continuous improvement in stock and demand management

Activities: Simulation-based ROP and safety stock calculations; group presentation on inventory strategies.