Automotive equipment manufacturer and aftermarket parts supplier Robert Bosch Corp. is developing a collaborative forecasting system to reduce inventory levels, increase inventory turns, reduce scrap costs, and improve customer service.

The company plans to use Manugistics Group Inc.'s sales and operation-planning software in its Aftermarket Division, according to Manugistics. The vendor declined to disclose details of the deal, including value and number of seats involved.

The sales and operations-planning software is designed to help companies keep demand and supply in balance by establishing the overall level of inventory and management output required to fulfill customer orders and planned demand, while meeting business objectives such as increased profitability, productivity, and customers-service levels.

Tim Williams, director of continuous improvement for Bosch, said in a statement that the Manugistics software was chosen because of the company's "expertise in the service-parts industry and reputation for focusing on customer satisfaction. We expect Manugistics' quick implementation, within six months, will help speed Bosch's return on investment."