Zethu Dlamini

Special Guest Blog Post written by Chris Cunnane with InterSystems   Demand sensing and demand forecasting are both crucial aspects of optimizing supply chains, but they do have slightly different functions in their approach and focus. Demand sensing uses real-time data and analytics to identify and respond to immediate demand fluctuations, while demand forecasting uses historical data to predict future demand over a longer period (months or years). Different methods, such as statistical modeling and machine learning, are used to enhance the accuracy and adaptability of these processes. Both areas are crucial for companies when it comes to projecting sales, managing inventory, and coordinating replenishment. In the end, the goal is to accurately predict customer demand by using predictive models to forecast future demand. InterSystems surveyed 450 senior supply chain practitioners and stakeholders to examine key supply chain technology challenges, trends, and decision-making strategies across five key use cases: fulfillment optimization; demand sensing and forecasting; supply chain orchestration; production planning optimization; and environmental, social, and governance (ESG). This blog focuses on demand sensing and forecasting.   Current State of Demand Sensing and Forecasting According to the survey results, when asked how they currently forecast demand, 36% of respondents indicated that…

At MODEX 2026 in Atlanta, Scott Luton sat down with Christian Lieberoth-Leden, Principal and Global Senior Expert, and Florian Salamon, Director of Consulting at 4flow, to unpack a complex warehouse transformation project that highlights the realities of modern supply chain growth. The discussion offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to design, implement, and scale a next-generation operation while keeping business moving uninterrupted. When Growth Forces Reinvention The project began with a clear challenge: a rapidly growing customer had outgrown its existing U.S. warehouse network. According to Christian Lieberoth-Leden, the company anticipated “doubling volume” over the next decade while simultaneously managing a major operational shift from B2B to B2C fulfillment. The existing facility simply could not support the future business requirements. A new warehouse was inevitable – – but this wasn’t just about adding capacity. It was about rethinking the operation entirely. At the same time, the stakes were extremely high. The warehouse would become a mission-critical hub for the company’s U.S. business, meaning there was little room for error. Start with Requirements, Not Tech One of the most important themes from the conversation is that successful transformation projects begin long before automation decisions are made. Christian emphasizes…