Real-time data: turn exceptions into decisions
Real time creates value only when definitions, sources, thresholds, ownership and the action window are explicit.
The decision thread
This dossier follows 5 control points, from “Name the decision” to “Track the action”.
Systems to align: ERP · WMS · TMS · MES · OMS · API / Events.
Name the decision
Start with the action to trigger, useful window and cost of a decision made too early, too late or without cause.
- Which data establishes “Name the decision”?
- Who decides when “Name the decision” reveals a variance?
- Which record confirms the outcome of “Name the decision”?
Identify sources
For every data point, identify producer, responsible system, frequency, timestamp, expected quality and fallback.
- Which data establishes “Identify sources”?
- Who decides when “Identify sources” reveals a variance?
- Which record confirms the outcome of “Identify sources”?
Standardise events
Define event identifier, type, state, version and order so systems describe the same flow.
- Which data establishes “Standardise events”?
- Who decides when “Standardise events” reveals a variance?
- Which record confirms the outcome of “Standardise events”?
Qualify the exception
Combine threshold, context, severity and actionability so every variation does not become an alert.
- Which data establishes “Qualify the exception”?
- Who decides when “Qualify the exception” reveals a variance?
- Which record confirms the outcome of “Qualify the exception”?
Track the action
Assign owner, due date, status, decision and outcome; an alert without a closure loop only creates noise.
- Which data establishes “Track the action”?
- Who decides when “Track the action” reveals a variance?
- Which record confirms the outcome of “Track the action”?
Associated solutions
Turn these questions into a scoping grid.
Questions, ownership, evidence and comparison criteria for workshops.
- Scoping questions
- Points to watch
- Comparison criteria
Sources & reference framework
The scope must be tested against the definitions, events and responsibilities of each system below.
Real time is not display speed; it is the ability to decide while action is still possible.
Frequently asked questions
How should these insights be used?
Each insight structures the discussion. Scope, data and ownership still need to be contextualised with your teams.
How can a topic be connected to my IT landscape?
Each insight structures the discussion. Scope, data and ownership still need to be contextualised with your teams.
Do these resources replace scoping?
Each insight structures the discussion. Scope, data and ownership still need to be contextualised with your teams.
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