Supply Chain Planning Comparison
O8 Software vs ToolsGroup
ToolsGroup provides AI-powered demand planning and inventory optimisation software. Their Service Optimizer platform uses probabilistic forecasting and machine learning to optimise inventory levels and service performance across distribution networks.
Where ToolsGroup excels
A fair view of their strengths.
- ✓Strong probabilistic forecasting approach that handles demand uncertainty well
- ✓Good inventory optimisation capabilities particularly for distribution-intensive businesses
- ✓Automated planning with minimal manual intervention once configured
AI model assessment
GenAI assistance versus true ML decision capability.
GenAI or copilot use
ToolsGroup is less dependent on GenAI positioning than many newer platforms, although assistant features may appear around planning productivity and explainability.
True ML like O8?
ToolsGroup has genuine ML and probabilistic forecasting capability for demand and inventory optimisation. It is one of the more credible true-ML competitors, though its centre of gravity is forecasting and inventory rather than O8’s wider executable supply planning scope.
Where O8 Software differs
How O8 approaches supply planning differently.
- →ToolsGroup focuses primarily on demand forecasting and inventory optimisation for distribution. O8 covers the full supply planning scope — replenishment, production scheduling, and distribution — including manufacturing environments.
- →ToolsGroup uses probabilistic forecasting as its core approach. O8 applies targeted ML to specific planning problems and supports demand-driven/DDMRP methods alongside traditional approaches.
- →ToolsGroup is strongest in distribution-intensive businesses. O8 has proven delivery across manufacturing (3M, Boots), telecoms (BT), pharmaceuticals (Allergan), oil and gas (Shell), and food and beverage (AG Barr).
- →O8 has 25+ years of measured results: Boots cut lead time from 12 to 4 weeks, BT halved inventory while maintaining 99%+ availability, Allergan increased turns from 4.2 to 8.5.
- →Many platforms are adding generative AI copilot features for planning assistance. O8 takes a different approach: targeted machine learning models that make real planning decisions automatically. Autopilot, not copilot. Real decision-making, not decision support.
See what O8 has delivered
Measured results from real customers.
O8 has helped companies like 3M, Shell, BT, Boots, and AG Barr reduce inventory by 30–60% while maintaining service levels above 97%.
Compare O8 with other platforms: Kinaxis · SAP IBP · o9 Solutions · Logility · Blue Yonder