What drove the decision to develop an AI-based use case?

Crateflow is a direct response to the growing problems that the industry is facing around the world. Methods such as Excel and simple statistical models have long since reached their limits. They are inaccurate, lack transparency, and lead to costly excess inventory, tied up capital, and inefficient processes. In times of global uncertainty and fluctuating demand, such approaches are no longer viable.  

Our AI analyzes immense amounts of data and incorporates important external factors such as market trends, geopolitical developments, and commodity prices. In addition, our "what-if" system allows companies to run through different scenarios to make informed decisions for the future. This not only gives companies more accurate demand forecasts, but also the flexibility to respond immediately to unpredictable events. 

Crateflow supports cross-departmental planning, enabling companies to manage their supply chain dynamically and efficiently. The result: optimized inventories, reduced costs, and increased competitiveness - even in uncertain times. 

 

What were your expectations or requirements for the AI application?

From the beginning, we understood that AI is only the answer when properly integrated into the process. You can't just drop AI on a problem and expect instant results. Our requirement was to create a solution that could be seamlessly integrated into existing processes to deliver real, sustainable improvements. 

Crateflow isn't just about better forecasting. It's about improving processes through a human-machine collaboration, uncertainty quantification, and data-driven decision making. Only through this holistic approach can we ensure that our customers manage their inventory efficiently, reduce costs and future-proof their planning.

 

What frameworks/methods did you rely on for development?

We engaged extensively with potential customers to ensure that Crateflow is precisely targeted at solving the real challenges faced by the industry. It was essential for us to avoid developing solutions that miss the mark, and instead create practical solutions from the outset that provide genuine value. 

Furthermore, we brought on board experienced senior advisors with deep supply chain expertise to elevate Crateflow to a state-of-the-art standard. 

 

The use of AI solutions must also be accompanied by a change in competences. How have you dealt with this challenge in respect of your employees?

To ensure that our customers realize the full potential of Crateflow, our Customer Success team provides targeted training. In this way, we ensure that our customers not only use the software effectively, but also achieve optimal results. 

Internally, we focus on continuous learning - through workshops, certifications and expert interaction. This ensures that both our employees and our customers are always up to date and well prepared to use our AI solution. 

 

In what timeframe did they implement the AI solution in your company/your client‘s company?

Our solution is rooted in practical industry applications and not based on theoretical assumptions. Significant results were achieved within the first few weeks. Crateflow was successfully tested by several customers and quickly demonstrated its value. The positive feedback confirms that Crateflow not only addresses immediate needs but also provides long-term strategic value. This fast, practical approach allows us to implement Crateflow efficiently and at scale. 

 

A conclusion to your AI solution:

Crateflow is the answer to the industry's growing challenges. With our AI, you can not only optimize your inventory planning, but also streamline your cost structures by effectively avoiding over- and understocks. 

Seamless collaboration between human and machine further increases efficiency: The AI generates forecasts, while experts contribute their experience and strategic insights to the process. Our 'Control Tower' gives you full visibility of all key metrics and allows you to run 'what-if' scenarios to make well-informed decisions. 

Crateflow provides you with all the strategic data at a glance, giving you complete control over your supply chain—efficient, future-proof, and transparent. 

 

One final piece of advice/tip to other entrepreneurs looking to apply AI:

In today's economy, no company can afford inefficient processes or planning mistakes. Artificial intelligence is no longer a thing of the future—it is the tool to reduce costs, avoid bottlenecks, and seize new opportunities. 

The key lies in targeted, strategic application. Companies that fail to act now risk falling behind. If you want to optimize your processes and stay competitive, let's talk. Crateflow helps you seamlessly integrate AI and achieve sustainable success. 

 

 

https://www.crateflow.ai/ 

 

Picture: Crateflow