Item: IBM Planning Analytics
Rating: 9
Author: Eli Blanks

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

It has been a couple years since we deployed IBM Planning analytics in our organization. We use it to optimize how we allocate our resources, including labor, equipment and materials according to availability and demand and to help manage our budget. It allows us to create detailed budget plans, track expenses and forecast future spending accurately.

Pros and Cons

Automation of manual planning, budgeting and forecasting.
The visualization and dashboards are customizable and valuable.
Integration with excel

In the construction field we are on site most of the time and we need to have a native mobile app. IBM Planning analytics has no mobile app.

Return on Investment

Centralized repository provided by IBM allows all our project stakeholders have access to the same up-to-date information, reducing data silos and enhancing transparency.
Automation has led to time saving
High participation planning and alignment across the organization

Scenario Planning and What-If Analysis

IBM Planning Analytics allows us to create multiple scenarios based on different assumptions. We can model a range of potential risks and uncertainties, such as material cost fluctuations, weather-related delays, or unexpected regulatory changes. By inputting various scenarios, we can assess the impact of these risks on project schedules and budgets.

Key Insights

Do you think IBM Planning Analytics delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with IBM Planning Analytics's feature set?

Yes

Did IBM Planning Analytics live up to sales and marketing promises?

I wasn't involved with the selection/purchase process

Did implementation of IBM Planning Analytics go as expected?

I wasn't involved with the implementation phase

Would you buy IBM Planning Analytics again?

Yes

Support Rating

The support is generally responsive and helpful. They are always available.

Usability

The software offers a wide range of powerful features for financial and operational planning, which can be highly valuable for our construction projects. However, its usability can be somewhat complex, and the learning curve is steep.

Other Software Used

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Project, Adobe Marketo Engage

Likelihood to Recommend

I would be likely to recommend IBM Planning Analytics, particularly in scenarios where comprehensive financial and operational planning is essential. For instance, in our construction company, it is awesome for optimizing resource allocation across multiple projects, creating detailed project budgets, and conducting risk analysis to mitigate project uncertainties.

IBM Planning Analytics: Paving the way in construction.

Overall Satisfaction with IBM Planning Analytics