ISG S&OP Series | Episode 2 – Demand Planning: From Forecast to Foresight

→ Watch Episode 3: Supply Planning, Making Continuous Real

Demand planning doesn’t break because teams can’t forecast.
It fails because signals arrive too late to change decisions.

You can invest in better models, more history, and tighter processes. But when demand shifts mid-cycle and key signals sit outside the plan, forecasting becomes a rear-view mirror instead of a decision tool.

If any of these sound familiar, you’re likely planning without foresight:

1. Forecasts look “accurate,” but still miss turning points
2. Teams debate numbers instead of acting on what’s changing
3. Promotions, launches, and market shifts get handled as exceptions every cycle
4. The consensus process adds time, not clarity
5. Supply and finance lose confidence because demand changes too late

More history and more models won’t fix this. Signal-driven foresight will.

What you’ll learn:

• Why forecast accuracy alone isn’t enough in volatile markets
• How internal and external signals improve decision timing and confidence
• How leading teams connect demand insights to supply and financial decisions

Featuring:

Robert Kugel, ISG (Executive Director):
highlights why demand planning must evolve beyond forecast accuracy to keep pace with volatility.

Matt Hopkins, Board (Global Supply Chain & Retail Marketing Director):
explains how leading teams use signals and cross-functional alignment to move from forecast to foresight.

Next episode:

Episode 3: Supply Planning, Making Continuous Real

Or explore the series:

Episode 1: The Missing Orchestrator
Episode 4: Supply Chain Technology, Complexity vs Confidence
Episode 5: Integrated Business Planning and AI, The Confidence Multiplier