When you install Reverse Planning from AppSource, you can be up and running almost immediately. This article walks through what the app gives you out of the box, when you need to do setup, and how to adjust the item and SKU template filters if you run more than one location.
If you only have one location, or only have suppliers and demands on a single location, you can start using Reverse Planning right away with no configuration.
If you run multiple locations, the main thing you need to do is adjust the item template and SKU template filters and add your own location code.
Reverse Planning ships with a large set of default templates, including templates for calculating MRP and suggesting new quantities. You can use these directly or create your own.
When you run a template, it suggests quantities to order and moves the lines into your Reverse Planning worksheet. If there is something to handle, it appears in the worksheet automatically, even with the default setup.
Installing Reverse Planning and getting started
After you download Reverse Planning from AppSource, you are almost ready to go. When you install it, a small popup appears where you can start a short wizard and watch some introductory videos.
You can also navigate straight into Reverse Planning, which works like a small dashboard. The first time you open it, a video shows you how it works. You can choose not to see that video again, or you can leave it open so it pops up and asks each time you enter. When you have time, you can open the simple MRP planning, and another video with instructions appears if you want it.
Using the out-of-the-box templates
Reverse Planning includes a lot of templates out of the box, so you can start using them straight away. For example, you can run the Calculate MRP function and select one of the provided templates.
The same applies to the auto-run next templates and the feature that suggests new quantities. The item filters and other default setup are already in place, so for most cases you can simply start using them. There are videos explaining how to create your own templates if you need something more specific.
Adjusting item and SKU template filters for multiple locations
If you run more than one location, the main adjustment you need to make is to the item template and SKU template filters, including adding your own location code.
As an example, if you navigate into a purchase item, you can see the item filter list and build your own item filters before you start. You might set the type to inventory on your items, exclude blocked items, and include only purchase items.
From there you can add a location filter. For instance, if you use a location called Production as your main location, you add that to the filter. Once you have set it, the template runs with Production as the default location across all items, and you can start using it.
What you get once a template runs
When you run the template you selected, it suggests the quantity to order and moves the lines into your Reverse Planning worksheet. Anything that needs handling shows up there automatically, even with the out-of-the-box configuration. Getting up and running is straightforward.
Q&A
Do I need to configure Reverse Planning before using it?
Not necessarily. If you have only one location, or only suppliers and demands on a single location, you can start using Reverse Planning straight away. The app comes with default templates and filters set up out of the box.
What setup is required if I run multiple locations?
The main thing to do is adjust the item template and SKU template filters and add your own location code. For example, you can add a location filter so the template uses your main location, such as Production, as the default.
Where do I get Reverse Planning?
You download it from Microsoft AppSource. After installing, a popup appears where you can start a wizard and watch introductory videos.
Do I have to create my own templates?
No. Reverse Planning includes many templates out of the box, such as templates for Calculate MRP and for suggesting new quantities. You can use these directly, or create your own if you need to. Videos are available that explain how to build your own templates.
What happens when I run a template?
The template suggests the quantity to order and moves the relevant lines into your Reverse Planning worksheet. Anything that needs handling appears in the worksheet automatically, even with the default setup.