Forecasting is the starting point of all supply chain planning. You will learn to predict future customer demand using historical data and statistical models.
Once the aggregate plan is locked, planners break it down into the Master Production Scheduling (MPS). The MPS feeds into Material Requirements Planning (MRP). You will be asked to complete inventory matrices involving:
: The "final answer" to many supply chain problems is S&OP. It’s the cross-functional process where sales, marketing, and finance align with operations to ensure the company doesn't overproduce or stock out. 🛠️ Practical Study Tips to Pass Every Time
Forecasting is the starting point of all supply chain planning. Coursera assessments frequently test your ability to differentiate between qualitative and quantitative forecasting methods.
and balancing supply with demand. Key formulas and terms you'll encounter include: EOQ (Economic Order Quantity):
This involves strategic decisions regarding the physical footprint of the supply chain. You will learn about facility location selection, capacity allocation, and balancing transportation costs against warehouse operational costs. Step-by-Step: How to Solve Common Coursera Quiz Problems
This final module is the capstone, where you apply all your forecasting skills to a real-life dataset to make recommendations on the best methods to use. It moves beyond pure forecasting to encompass the wider planning ecosystem within a company.
The core of this course is about answering a fundamental question: how do companies know how much to produce in advance to avoid costly overproduction or disappointing shortages? The curriculum is structured into four key modules:
This is where 70% of students lose points.
Maintaining a steady production rate. This keeps labor costs stable but builds up high inventory levels during low-demand periods.
: Assumes the next period will be identical to the last. Simple but essential as a baseline.
Be prepared to answer questions about the trade-off between inventory costs and service levels.
Weighted Moving Average: Assigning more weight to recent periods when data trends are changing rapidly.
. He stopped looking for the "answers" and started looking for the
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about supply chain planning Coursera answers:
The classic formula to minimize total inventory costs by balancing ordering and holding costs.