Synopsis: Frepple is an open-source, advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software designed to help businesses optimize production, inventory, and resource planning. It provides powerful tools for companies to enhance operational efficiency and align their supply chain processes.
Key Features of Frepple
1. Demand Forecasting
Uses historical data and trends to predict future demand for products.
Supports multiple forecasting methods, including automatic model selection.
2. Inventory Planning
Optimizes inventory levels by balancing stock availability and cost.
Recommends reorder points and safety stock levels to minimize overstock and stockouts.
3. Production Planning
Generates feasible production schedules based on available resources, lead times, and constraints.
Supports finite and infinite capacity planning.
4. Capacity Planning
Analyzes available resources, such as labor and machinery, to ensure production meets demand.
Helps identify bottlenecks and resource constraints in advance.
5. Order Management
Prioritizes customer orders to meet delivery deadlines and optimize resource allocation.
Tracks and adjusts schedules dynamically as demand or constraints change.
6. Scenario Modeling
Allows users to test "what-if" scenarios, such as changes in demand, capacity, or inventory policies.
Supports data-driven decision-making by comparing outcomes of different strategies.
7. Extensibility and Customization
Offers an API and Python scripting for integrating with existing ERP and MES systems.
Flexible to adapt to specific business workflows and unique industry requirements.
8. Open-Source and Community-Driven
Frepple is open-source, meaning users can modify and extend the software to fit their needs.
Supported by a community of contributors as well as optional professional services for setup and maintenance.
9. User-Friendly Interface
Provides a web-based interface with intuitive dashboards and interactive Gantt charts for visualization.
Simplifies access to key insights and reports.
10. Modular Approach
Modules for demand planning, inventory planning, and production planning allow businesses to adopt only the features they need.
When to Use Frepple
Frepple is ideal for:
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) needing affordable planning tools.
Companies looking for a scalable alternative to expensive proprietary APS systems.
Teams aiming to optimize manufacturing, distribution, or inventory workflows.
Pricing
Frepple is free under its open-source license. Additional paid services include cloud hosting, training, and support for businesses that need extra assistance.
Why Frepple?
Frepple provides a cost-effective, flexible solution for businesses seeking to streamline their supply chain and resource planning processes. Its modular design and extensibility make it suitable for companies across various industries, especially those needing advanced planning capabilities without the expense of proprietary software.