Key concepts

Understand the fundamental concepts of IBM Sterling Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson.

Optimization objectives
Every time an order is sent to IBM Sterling Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson, it performs multi-objective optimization to determine the best option for fulfilling it.
Optimization penalties
When two or more ship nodes have the same cost to serve, a distance penalty and delay penalty tiebreaker cost are applied to determine a selection.
Optimization constraints
In addition to the optimization objectives and penalties, Fulfillment Optimizer also considers the days to deliver and SLA for each order to make the most optimal fulfillment decision.
Globalization
Domestic shipping for the United States is enabled by default in Fulfillment Optimizer.
Optimization explainer
When an order is sent to IBM Sterling Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson, many rules, configurations, constraints, and cost optimization goals are applied to determine the most optimal way to fulfill it. Optimization explainer gives you insight into how Fulfillment Optimizer optimized your orders based on your business objectives.
Benefits report
Easily view your accumulated benefits and understand the total impact of using IBM Sterling Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson with Benefits report.
SmartStart
IBM's SmartStart offering allows you to quickly visualize the impact of using Fulfillment Optimizer on your business and test the integration between Fulfillment Optimizer and IBM Sterling Order Management prior to making major changes to your existing processes.
Scenarios
IBM Sterling Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson can be used to make decisions based on specific business priorities.
Simulator
IBM Sterling Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson Simulator is an add-on feature that you can use to simulate alternative fulfillment scenarios for the SKUs and time periods that you specify.

Parent topic: Overview