Designing the ‘Future of Planning’: Engaging and adaptive software for faster and smarter decisions

In the past, planning software often adopted a one-size-fits-all approach, assuming that a single solution could meet the needs of all users. However, a planning ecosystem goes beyond planners. As organizations grow more complex, it’s clear that different roles within a company have different needs. Moreover, depending on the size of the company, multiple roles can be combined in one person or split among different people. Who has access to what information, what is relevant at which moment all depend on the business process at a specific company. For this reason, we will need to shift from generic to personalized solutions that are highly adaptable: solutions that learn from the users by the way they use the system and from the choices they make, so the software can tune into the needs of the users more and more.  

In the hyper technological world we live in, our users, just like all other people in the world, expect technology to anticipate their needs, entertain them and give them exactly what they need. To create planning solutions that resonate with the different users, we find it essential to focus on four key design principles: (1) enablement, (2) relevance, (3) proactivity, and (4) engagement. 

As our solutions are powered by advanced mathematics, they offer great support to our customers by enabling in making decisions based on solid facts and data rather than relying on instinct, gut feelings or routine. To maximize the benefits of our solutions, it's crucial that users develop trust and proficiency in using the system. To facilitate this, we focus on three key steps: 

1. Enhancing visibility: We provide clear, easy-to-understand visualizations that show the system's impact over time, leveraging tools that analyze and monitor historical performance. 
2. User education: We empower users to get the most out of our solutions by offering e-learning resources and ChatGPT-powered assistance, helping them to adopt new features effectively. 
3. Becoming a trusted partner: Ultimately, our goal is to become the planner's trusted sidekick, continuously refining plans with data-driven insights while incorporating valuable feedback of the planner on the softer, human aspects of planning. 

Imagine a planner who, on a typical day, needs to manage both routine tasks and unexpected challenges. By presenting only the most pertinent data - such as a sudden change in delivery schedules due to weather conditions - the software ensures that the planner’s attention is focused where it’s needed most. This relevance not only enhances decision-making but also makes the users feel in control while it reduces the cognitive load. As a result, they will have more time available to think about longer-term improvements and higher impact inventions. 

Most companies still use traditional planning systems that are reactive, addressing issues only after they arise. We often see how organizations review tactical plans on a schedule – such as every 3 months – but not when there’s an actual need to do so. Similarly, in operations, there’s typically a gap between the resources available on a specific day and the orders that need to be fulfilled, but such a mismatch only surfaces in the last 24 hours before operations. At that moment, the planning department often needs to react last minute to arrange additional vans or drivers.   

By incorporating proactive decision support, software can identify potential problems before they become critical. For instance, by analyzing trends and historical data, the system can alert users to upcoming resource shortages or logistical bottlenecks, allowing them to take preemptive action. It allows to anticipate on many issues, have more balanced networks and less stress and costs before operations.   

Engagement goes beyond functionality. And planning software supported by mathematics doesn’t have to show only some ‘dry’ tables without any fun elements. We believe good software is also about creating an experience that makes users eager to interact with it. For instance, incorporating personalized greetings, intuitive interfaces, and even a touch of humor can make a significant difference in user satisfaction. An engaged user is more likely to explore the full capabilities of the software, leading to better outcomes and higher productivity. 

Investing in planning software that is engaging, relevant, and proactive is not just about improving efficiency - it’s about transforming the way people work. By prioritizing user-centered design and tailoring solutions to meet the diverse needs of the modern workforce, companies can create environments where employees are happier, less stressed, and more confident in their roles. As businesses look to the future, the question is not just about the capabilities of their planning software but how well it supports and enhances the human element within their operations.