Supported by Business Finland, SCM Best Oy has developed an AI Agent and AI19 forecasting models that seamlessly integrate new data sources into the forecasting process. The new features enable more accurate, proactive decision-making.
In today’s global environment, supply chains are increasingly complex. Worldwide crises and market disruptions can rapidly impact sourcing and product availability. To stay ahead, companies must broaden the data they rely on for forecasting and planning.
Traditionally, SCM software analyzes structured ERP data to produce forecasts. While this provides a solid foundation, it leaves out a vast amount of valuable unstructured information—such as news reports, market analyses, and social media trends.
Supported by Business Finland, SCM Best Oy has built AI-driven capabilities that utilize large language models (LLMs) to incorporate external, unstructured data into forecasting.
The result: more accurate forecasts and optimized inventory management. SCM Best Oy’s extensive historical data has made this pioneering project possible.
AI19 models and AI Agent enhance Sales and Operations Planning
Wisestein SCM®, the platform developed by SCM Best Oy, already supports a wide range of forecasting models. In this project, the platform was enhanced with a demand forecasting assistant—an AI Agent—that analyzes and enriches forecasts even more.
In addition, AI19 forecasting models were introduced to further strengthen the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process. The AI analyzes each product and selects the optimal forecasting model for it.
As AI technology continues to evolve, SCM Best Oy estimates that by 2030, more than 100 forecasting models—the AIX19 generation—will be available. New models can be quickly integrated into the Wisestein platform.
The AI Agent allows companies to tap into data sources that were previously out of reach, adding a new level of depth and agility to business planning. All new AI capabilities operate seamlessly as part of the Wisestein SCM® platform.
A new era of forecasting: Harnessing unstructured data for insights
The Wisestein SCM® AI Agent helps businesses make data-driven, proactive decisions by:
- Combining data sources: The AI aggregates traditional statistical forecasts to the desired level of granularity to establish a quantitative baseline.
- Leveraging unstructured data: It processes massive volumes of unstructured external information—such as news, market reviews, social media trends, competitor activity, and macroeconomic indicators.
- Generating qualitative insights: The AI identifies factors affecting demand and suggests adjustments to the statistical forecast.
- Providing transparent visualization: Trends, recommended changes, and justifications are visually presented for planners to review and evaluate.
- Enabling streamlined approval: Suggested changes can be quickly accepted and incorporated into final forecasts.
Customer benefits: Smarter forecasts as part of the Wisestein SCM® experience
The project delivers significant value to companies using Wisestein SCM®, including:
- Greater forecast accuracy: Forecasts draw from a wider variety of data sources. AI identifies and quantifies hidden factors and trends not visible in internal data, leading to more precise demand predictions.
- Enhanced risk management: AI detects disruptions, emerging trends, and market shifts in advance—helping companies mitigate risks proactively.
- More efficient decision-making: Automated data collection and analysis free valuable time and resources for strategic planning.
- Deeper market understanding: The AI Agent’s “deep search” and “chain-of-thought” capabilities provide a holistic view of the drivers influencing demand.
- Data-driven qualitative adjustments: Instead of gut-feel changes, AI recommends data-backed refinements to forecasts.
- Seamless user experience: All AI features are fully embedded in Wisestein SCM®, complementing existing S&OP and procurement processes without disrupting workflow.
Precise and proactive decision-making in a global marketplace
SCM Best Oy brings the power of AI directly into supply chain management. The integration of AI capabilities to Wisestein SCM® allows companies to use data more comprehensively—enhancing their ability to anticipate, plan, and adapt to global market changes.
“With AI, we can now tap into external market intelligence in ways that were previously impossible. It gives us a clearer picture of future demand and enables more accurate, proactive decision-making. Seeing AI suggest changes based on real-world events is a game-changer.”
— Ray Blomqvist, CEO, SCM Best Oy