How do changes in market demand impact master planning?

Changes in market demand directly influence a company's production schedules and inventory levels, making it essential for businesses to adjust their master planning accordingly. When demand for products increases or decreases, organizations must respond by altering their production plans to ensure that they either ramp up production to meet higher demand or scale back to avoid overproduction in response to a decrease in demand.

This alignment is crucial because producing too much in a time of decreased demand can lead to excess inventory, which may result in increased carrying costs and potential waste. Conversely, failing to produce enough during periods of increased demand can lead to stockouts, lost sales, and dissatisfied customers.

Efficient master planning takes these fluctuations into account, allowing companies not only to maintain optimal inventory levels but also to balance their production capabilities with actual market demand. This responsiveness to market conditions is vital for maintaining competitive advantage and profitability.