Demand numbers alone do not move product. Supply planning determines how to meet expected demand using available production capacity, inventory, and supplier resources.

Planners translate the demand plan into master production schedules, material requirements, and replenishment orders. Constraints—capacity, lead times, minimum batches—force prioritization when not everything can be made or bought on time. Scenario comparisons help choose among feasible options.

Tight integration with demand planning and with shop-floor and supplier execution keeps plans realistic. Chronic gaps between plan and actual signal process or data problems. Effective supply planning turns forecasts into executable build and buy decisions.

• Planning how to meet demand with available resources
• Covers production, materials, and replenishment
• Respects capacity and lead-time constraints
• Links demand signals to execution orders