CVL Think | Plan | Do

The Background

Goldsmiths had identified a growing requirement to improve the way they plan, budget and range product in their stores.

They wanted to retain the relationships and business model with existing suppliers but needed to improve the quality of their management information to support future planning activities.

Demand planning, budgeting, forecasting, ranging and space planning were the main areas of focus in the resultant improvement programme.

"CVL worked efficiently with us to quickly identify our demand planning solution requirements. They brought a wealth of experience from the industry and gave us invaluable advice, cutting to the chase and working effectively with all levels within our business."
Sara Owrid, Head of Merchandise Development
 
 

The CVL Solution

CVL began by collating and understanding the in-house complexities with regard to the way that the merchandise planning process was managed and controlled.

To support this, user workshops were held in order to identify the requirements in absolute detail.

CVL then designed a selection process, based on the captured requirements, which resulted in a supplier shortlist for a demand planning application addressing Goldsmith's specific needs.

The final stage of the project was to work with the Goldsmiths team to put together a detailed Request For Proposal (RFP) document that resulted in the optimum supplier being chosen.

Throughout the process, CVL provided support, expertise and coaching for Goldsmiths' management development team.

The Benefits

The whole short-listing process was made easier and faster because CVL had been able to lay out the requirements so clearly in advance.

The Goldsmiths team, including senior management, felt empowered by the process through gaining a high-level view of their own operation.

They were able to see how the new demand management system exactly met their business requirements and would deliver tangible financial benefits through improved tracking and visibility.

During the process, merchandisers, buyers and space planners were able to identify areas where improvements could be made - even before the new application was implemented.