Inventory Optimization: Demand Forecasting and Replenishment in Excel

Balancing high service levels with low holding costs is one of the greatest challenges in modern supply chain management. This comprehensive text-based course teaches you how to systematically optimize your inventory using proven mathematical models and practical Excel formulas. You will transition from guessing order quantities to implementing data-driven replenishment strategies that minimize stockouts and eliminate costly excess inventory. What you'll learn: - Classify inventory effectively using multi-criteria ABC-XYZ analysis to prioritize high-value items. - Apply statistical forecasting methods including Simple Exponential Smoothing (SES) and Holt-Winters to predict future demand. - Calculate optimal order sizes using the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) model and its modern extensions. - Design robust replenishment policies such as continuous (s,Q) and periodic (R,S) review systems. - Evaluate demand uncertainty using the Newsvendor model to optimize safety stock for seasonal and perishable items. - Understand multi-echelon supply chain principles to coordinate inventory levels across multiple warehouse tiers. The course begins with foundational inventory concepts and terminology before guiding you step-by-step through forecasting formulas, replenishment logic, and practical Excel implementations. You will learn to construct these quantitative models from scratch using written, step-by-step logic and clear formulas. This course is designed for beginners in supply chain, logistics coordinators, and inventory analysts who want to back their operations with rigorous data. No advanced mathematical background is required. Start reading today to transform your inventory management from reactive firefighting into a structured, cost-saving science.