ZuKID
Reliable AI-supported material requirements planning for small and medium-sized enterprises – with a focus on safety, acceptance, and trust
Motivation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significant potential to optimize supply chain management and planning processes, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which represent the majority of Germany's manufacturing sector. Despite this potential, AI adoption in SMEs remains low. Decisions in material requirements planning are often made manually, relying largely on employee experience. This leaves companies vulnerable to knowledge loss and limits the systematic utilization of available operational data. At the same time, SMEs frequently struggle with excess inventory, demand volatility, and supply chain disruptions.
Scope
The project aims to develop and validate an AI-supported material requirements planning system tailored specifically to the needs of SMEs. The system will enhance demand forecasting, optimize order and supplier decisions under uncertainty, and facilitate proactive risk management through predictive models and scenario-based simulations. A dedicated implementation framework will actively involve users, fostering trust and promoting long-term acceptance. By merging technological innovation with user-centric change management, the project seeks to reduce excess inventory, improve delivery reliability, and strengthen the long-term competitiveness of SMEs.
Partners
Funding
ZuKID is being funded as part of the NEXT.IN.NRW innovation competition within the EFRE/JTF program 2021–2027 by the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and the European Union.
