Decisyon Inc. has introduced a business-intelligence and performance-management platform that unifies social collaboration, analytics, planning and execution across multiple departments.

When Fujitsu noticed diminishing returns in its ongoing efforts to improve forecast accuracy, it adopted a new strategy of product segmentation, changing inventory policies for difficult to forecast items. Barry Chapman of Fujitsu explains how this strategy was implemented and the benefits that the company is reaping.

Tupperware's unique house-party business model presents interesting demand management challenges. Omar Campbell, director of marketing operations, talks about the importance of demand planning vs. forecasting and how Tupperware is working to improve its demand planning processes.

Data from sources like social media, along with powerful analytic software, are giving companies insights into customer buying habits that never before were possible, says Raj Devarajan of Symphony Analytics. He discusses this and other implications that big data holds for supply chain management.

The way most companies evaluate forecasting performance tells them the magnitude of their error, but does little to identify causes of the error or potential for improvement, says Michael Gilliland of SAS. Gilliland explains how the addition of a few simple analytic tools can provide fuller and more useful evaluations.

Providing medical implants for upper-body surgeries is a critical, time-sensitive business. Raymond Allen of Biomet Microfixations explains how his company forecasts and manages demand so as to never disappoint the patient.

Supporting the many different channels through which today's consumers shop for, purchase and return products presents tremendous challenges and opportunities for retailers, says Annibal Sodero, assistant professor at the Sam Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas.