Capabilities for successful Artificial Intelligence implementation in supply chain planning process

Övrigt konferensbidrag, 2025

There are different technological tools that could be used in Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) but their implementation and adoption remain low. The reason is that it is not clear what the requirements are to implement these tools. These tools also affect how the S&OP process is carried out. The purpose of this research is to investigate the requirements and effect of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in S&OP. This research is based on three cases where ML- and AI-based tools were used in the S&OP process. AI and ML usage has been studied in detail through interviews to understand the human and non-human actors’ involvement. The preliminary findings show that the current process has to be mature to implement AI solutions. These solutions also require a reliable data source in order to generate accurate insights. Therefore, a digitalization strategy precedes the use of ML and AI. Additionally, changes in business policies also affect the adoption of AI in the organization. This paper explores the real-world application of ML and AI to offer insights about their implications in the S&OP process. The results also provide guidance for successful adoption of advanced technology in the S&OP process. The studied cases cover usage of AI and ML in specific areas of the S&OP process and not the entire process. More cases are required in other contexts and applications to draw general conclusions.