Advanced Planning and Scheduling is a Key Supply Chain Management Optimization Concept

APS Logos

Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) is a key concept in both CSCP and CLTD addressing the techniques (and systems) supporting planning across the supply chain.

The CLTD body of knowledge (BOK) provides a brief introduction (1 page) of APS through simply defining what APS is…

APICS Dictionary, 15th edition:

‘Techniques dealing with analysis and planning of logistics and manufacturing during short, intermediate, and long-term periods. APS describes any computer program using advanced mathematical algorithms or logic to perform optimization or simulation of finite capacity scheduling, sourcing, capital planning, resource planning, forecasting, demand management and others.’

Comparatively, the more strategic CSCP BOK goes into more detail (3.5 pages) around how APS work with ERP systems, the four primary modules (Demand Management, Resource Management, Requirements Optimization and Resource Allocation), introduces the sales/customer service decision support concepts of Available-to-Promise (also referenced in CLTD), Capable-to-Promise, and Profitable-to-Promise, and ends with a APS benefits summary.

In summary, APS establishes a ‘single version of the truth’ by driving planning at the Strategic (Long-term), Tactical (Medium-term/Aggregate) and Operational (Short-term) levels in more complex supply chains (i.e. supply chains with multiple ERPS and/or multiple sourcing/production streams.

Planning Level

Scope
Strategic (Long-term) Logistics supply chain network design. Facility locations and capabilities, and ownership models.
Tactical (Medium-term/Aggregate) Cross supply chain inventory levels and associated labor, equipment and materials resources.
Operational (Short-term) Demand forecasts, demand plans, inventory plans, transportation plans and optimized daily production schedules. Guidance on transportation routing and schedule, labor shifts, etc. These plans serve as input into master scheduling solutions for detailed production and fulfillment execution.

Example APS solutions from the Gartner Supply Chain Magic Quadrant include, Demand Solutions, Logility, OM Partners, JDA, Quintiq, Dynasys, and Adexa. Additionally, many ERP systems will have a built in APS module. For more information, check out the Gartner Supply Chain Planning Magic Quardrant here.