Armor Express Uses Predictive Supply Chain Analytics to Help Protect More Lives

While Armor Express had to trial several different data platforms as part of its due diligence, Gordon knew based on previous experience there was only one solution that could make the grade. “We trialed solutions like Tableau and Data Miner, but I was already convinced of Alteryx’s capabilities and performance,” says Gordon. “Having used the platform to transform inventory in a previous role, I knew Alteryx would help me create the fastest solution in the best interests of our customers.”

Gordon’s first job was to build workflows that could identify current open orders and build a solid strategy going forward. But keen to push the boundaries of what’s possible, Gordon reached out to the Alteryx Community for help creating predictive models. “The Alteryx Community is awesome,” says Gordon. “I was immediately put in touch with Mark Frisch at Marquee Crew, an approved Alteryx Partner with a track record of helping customers get the most from the platform.”

Together, Gordon and Frisch built predictive models in the Alteryx platform that blend product SKU data with customer orders and manufacturing output. “While we worked on the predictive model together, Jeff and Armor Express take full ownership of it, running with it to develop new innovative capabilities, such as tracking discontinued lines demand,” says Mark Frisch, Founder and CEO at Marquee Crew. “This capability is unique to Alteryx. They wouldn’t have achieved the results they have with any off-the-shelf platform.”

The new models even provide valuable demand and production data to Armor Express’ suppliers, helping them manage the supply of raw materials with greater accuracy. “Our model in Alteryx is constantly making predictions based on thousands of variables — from product data to raw material supplies,” explains Gordon. “The data we get back is highly accurate, and when it’s combined with our procurement and manufacturing teams’ knowledge, it’s a powerful combination.”

With several stakeholders across the business needing easy access to data-driven insights in Alteryx — from executive leadership to procurement and production leaders — Armor Express has also integrated the platform with Microsoft Power BI, enabling decision makers to quickly visualize key datasets on demand.

“Getting stakeholders to focus on raw numbers can be a challenge,” says Gordon. “But with accurate and easily accessible insights in Alteryx, we’ve supplemented our peoples’ gut instincts with the true state of play, empowering them to make the right decisions at the right time.”