Background

A leading global agribusiness that produces agrochemicals and seeds. The company operates in over 100 countries with a complex supply chain involving long lead times, high seasonality, and significant demand uncertainty.

Challenges

Before implementing SAP IBP, Syngenta faced several challenges:

• Fragmented Planning Tools: Over 28 local forecasting tools and multiple ERP systems led to inefficiencies and poor-quality outputs.
• Data Duplication: Data was duplicated across local systems, leading to inconsistencies.
• Demand Uncertainty: High seasonality and external variables like weather and pest control made demand forecasting difficult.
• Supply Chain Complexity: Long lead times and a large product portfolio added to the complexity.

Objectives

The main objectives of the SAP IBP implementation were:

• Unified Planning System: Create a single, global cloud-based solution for the entire supply planning process.
• Improved Forecast Accuracy: Enhance demand forecasting accuracy to reduce inventory inefficiencies and lost sales.
• Integrated Processes: Integrate demand and supply planning with execution systems like SAP ECC.

Implementation Approach

• Global Rollout: The implementation covered 50 affiliates across four geographies.
• Technical Design: The solution included demand planning, supply planning, and integration with execution systems.
• Change Management: Extensive training and change management initiatives were conducted to ensure smooth adoption.

Results

• Improved Visibility: Enhanced visibility into demand and supply across the organization.
• Better Forecast Accuracy: Significant improvements in forecast accuracy, leading to better inventory management.
• Streamlined Processes: Unified planning processes reduced inefficiencies and improved decision-making.

Lessons Learned

• Stakeholder Engagement: Continuous engagement with stakeholders was crucial for the success of the project.
• Data Quality: Ensuring high data quality was essential for accurate planning.
• Change Management: Effective change management strategies were key to user adoption and project success.

complexities of supply chain transformation. Their expertise in SAP IBP design, integration, and data management was instrumental in delivering a unified global planning solution.