Frequently Asked Questions

System and data

Can I upload my data via Excel to PLAIO?

Yes. Go to Data Management → Overview → Upload. You can also update your data through data source connections such as ERP systems or databases. See Manually Uploading Data.

How can I integrate PLAIO with my existing ERP system?

Integration is handled by our team of expert consultants, who work with you to ensure seamless data exchange and the integration of the relevant systems.

Can multiple users access PLAIO at the same time?

Yes. PLAIO encourages team collaboration and supports multiple users working concurrently on different tasks.

How does PLAIO ensure the security of my data?

PLAIO prioritises data security, using advanced encryption and strict access control policies to protect the safety and confidentiality of your data. See Access Management.

How do I set up single sign-on (SSO)?

You will receive instructions via PropelAuth once the process is initiated by your Customer Success Manager.

Demand

Why doesn’t PLAIO show my Error and Bias projections?

The system needs to collect 3 months of data before it can calculate Error and Bias. See Forecasting Approach & Performance Evaluation.

How do we manage forecast versions and compare between cycles?

Use the Save Forecast Version action in the Demand Planner (via the settings wheel or the Actions menu) to snapshot all forecast types. Then go to Data Management → Forecasts to view and export previous versions by selecting the forecast type and date. Comparing current plans against previous versions identifies significant changes. See Grid Actions — Run, Customise and Simulate Forecasts.

How do we handle tenders, market events, and one-time adjustments?

Add tenders as separate demand lines in the Demand Planner for scenario planning. If a tender is won, move it manually into the active plan for Supply Planning; if lost, remove the tender volume. This lets you compare outcomes before committing to a plan.

Supply

Can I manually override the purchase suggestions PLAIO provides?

Yes. If circumstances call for it, modify the automated order suggestions based on your experience and knowledge.

How does the system handle capacity constraints and CMO constraints?

Constraints — lead times, MOQ/IOQ, sourcing rules — are entered in the Constraints worksheet and evaluated during planning. The system indicates when a constraint is broken without preventing the action, maintaining visibility while allowing planner override. See Supplier Constraints.

How is safety stock calculated — can we use both days and quantity?

Both. Safety stock can be defined in quantity or in days of coverage. Policies are configured per item and considered during supply plan calculations to maintain target inventory levels.

How do we handle frozen periods and planning horizons?

Frozen periods can be set on Forecast Types in the Demand Planner under settings, preventing unexpected changes to the inputs feeding Supply Planning. Admins can override if changes are needed within the frozen period. The planning horizon is configurable, typically 18–36 months depending on the module.

Does the system support dual sourcing?

Yes. The system supports multiple sourcing options per item.

Does the system support supplier calendars?

Supplier calendars and downtime can be managed through constraints, by setting capacity to 0 during shutdown periods.

Getting help

Where can I find resources to help me get started?

This knowledge base holds user guides, tutorials, and feature reference. Start with Quick Start Guide.

What do I do if I encounter a problem or need support?

Email help@plaio.com. See Contacting PLAIO for what to include.