Supply Chain Masterclass: Understand Planning & Scheduling Course Syllabus

Overview: This comprehensive Supply Chain Masterclass provides a structured learning path to mastering planning and scheduling across supply chain operations. Designed for beginners, the course spans approximately 6 hours of focused content, divided into 8 practical modules. You’ll progress from foundational concepts to advanced planning techniques, gaining hands-on knowledge in demand forecasting, MRP, capacity planning, and S&OP integration. Ideal for professionals aiming to improve planning accuracy and operational agility, this course combines theory with real-world tools and KPIs to drive measurable results.

Module 1: Introduction to Supply Chain Planning

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Key concepts: supply chain network
• Push vs. pull strategies
• Planning hierarchy: strategic, tactical, and operational levels

Module 2: Demand Planning & Forecasting

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Forecasting methods: moving average
• Exponential smoothing
• Error measurement (MAPE, MAD)
• Forecast bias correction

Module 3: Materials Requirements Planning (MRP)

Estimated time: 1 hour

• MRP inputs: BOMs, inventory status, and master production schedule
• Generating planned orders
• Exception messages and net requirements

Module 4: Capacity Planning & Rough-Cut Scheduling

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Defining work centers, routings, and available capacity
• Rough-cut capacity planning
• Capacity leveling techniques

Module 5: Detailed & Finite Scheduling

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Finite vs. infinite scheduling: priorities, constraints, and sequencing
• Scheduling algorithms (heuristics)
• Forward/backward scheduling

Module 6: Distribution Requirements Planning & Inventory Optimization

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• DRP logic for multi-echelon distribution networks
• Safety stock calculation
• Reorder point and service level trade-offs

Module 7: Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Collaborative planning process and consensus forecasting
• Scenario analysis, gap management
• Executive review

Module 8: Planning Systems, Analytics & Best Practices

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Overview of leading planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra)
• Key performance indicators (OTIF, inventory turns, schedule adherence)
• Best-practice benchmarks for continuous improvement

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of business operations
• Familiarity with supply chain concepts
• Access to a computer with internet connection

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Master end-to-end supply chain planning including demand forecasting, MRP, and DRP
• Perform capacity planning and rough-cut scheduling to align production with demand
• Execute detailed (finite) scheduling to optimize shop-floor operations
• Configure safety stocks, reorder points, and lot-sizing for inventory optimization
• Integrate S&OP processes for cross-functional alignment and improved responsiveness