Managing Demand Volatility, Exceeding Customer Satisfaction Levels: A Look At What Progressive Retailers Are Doing

Facing a continuum of demand mechanisms and a host of other market influences, retailers are looking for scalable, flexible and economical ways to achieve success in a global environment

Retailers have traditionally faced a continuum of demand mechanisms, including seasonal shifts, back to school and holiday shopping, tax time, rising fuel costs, and a host of other foreseeable and elusive market influences. Demand volatility is only exacerbated in today's challenging economy, with shortening product life cycles, rampant promotions and markdowns, and a proliferation of alternative purchasing options available to consumers. No strangers to cyclical sales and heightened competition, retailers have high stakes in inventory management and optimization, with minimal margin for error or complacency.