Know which stock needs a reorder review
Replenishment decisions depend on someone noticing a low number in a sheet.
For buyers replenishing several SKUs or warehouse locations.
What good looks like.
Each flagged SKU/location has an explainable quantity proposal and a buyer decision.
- Starts when
- A scheduled stock review finds low cover or a demand change.
- Accountable owner
- Inventory planner
Where AI could help.
AI could explain flagged assumptions or summarize demand anomalies. Use explicit calculations for quantities; the buyer decides whether to order.
How the work could move.
A suggested process to adapt to your team. Each handoff needs a clear owner and a visible check.
Snapshot supply
Planner
Record available, reserved, in-transit and open-PO units by SKU/location with extraction times.
Ready when: Overlapping supply is identified and each quantity has a source.
Calculate cover
Planner
Create a worksheet using a named demand window, lead time and safety-stock assumption; flag promotion demand.
Ready when: A reviewer can reproduce the proposed quantity.
Review exposure
Buyer + finance
Compare proposals with MOQ, case packs, cash limits and existing requests. Record approve, defer or correct.
Ready when: Every flag has a decision and next review date.
Hand off the request
Buyer
Link the approved proposal and assumptions to one purchase request.
Ready when: Procurement accepts the request without creating a duplicate commitment.
Explore the setup, checks, and exceptions
Start with your tools.
Join dated stock, sales and open-order exports in a worksheet. Keep purchasing in its existing system; connections need field mapping and testing.
When things go wrong.
- Missing lead time makes the proposal incomplete; assign someone to confirm it.
- Do not add in-transit units again when they are already included in the open PO balance.
- Promotion spikes and shared bundle components need separate demand review.
A useful first step.
Review five SKUs, including one with an open PO, and reproduce each suggested quantity manually.
What to measure
Track proposal age, buyer overrides and stockout days; compare actual lead times with assumptions.
Want this working with your team and tools?
Build it yourself, adapt what you already have, or work with us. We can help you choose where to start and handle the technical build.