The CRM ERP SAP technical modules typically use deterministic methods or algorithms to find a solution schedule, which may not necessarily be the “best,” but is a great improvement over manual scheduling. An approach growing in popularity is to use a scheduler to determine a good schedule, then use a simulation model to simulate the proposed schedule and see how well the system really performs.

Although a number of vendors are working in this area, there are still some possibilities for an erp manufacturing module to add value. It would be useful to have one program module produce a schedule, and send it instantly to the simulator and the MRP system (with little or no user input) to confirm the feasibility and efficiency of the production plan. In this way, managers could be kept two steps ahead of their operation, anticipating problems and finding solutions for them.