Chewy. What exactly is a "chewy" supply chain conversation? This particular example from Patrick Bower, senior director of global supply chain planning and customer service for Combe, is specific to consumer packaged goods, but the lessons within apply to just about any industry.
When we talk about "chewy" conversations, we're talking about discussions that must be realistic, honest and transparent. They should include future plans, point-of-sales results, one-time events and multiple-time-period trending, as well as having a strong focus on demand drivers, and they should occur prior to the demand consensus meeting. Critical thinking in both demand consensus and the balance of the S&OP process. That's what we call “chewy.”
Gain deeper insight into S&OP consultantdemand planning during Pat’s live presentation at the APICS annual Best of the Best S&OP Conference in Chicago, June 14-15.
