2134. From Chaos to Clarity: Consulting Lessons from Optimizing Alpro’s Energy and Production Scheduling
Invited abstract in session TA-26: OR Making an Impact: 3 case studies and a discussion, stream Making an Impact: The Practitioners' Stream 1.
Tuesday, 8:30-10:00Room: Maurice Keyworth 1.33
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Justine Broihan
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| GAMS Software GmbH | |
| 2. | Frederik Fiand
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| GAMS Software GmbH | |
| 3. | Robin Schuchmann
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| GAMS Software GmbH |
Abstract
Every optimization model in production tells a deeper story—of translating theory into practice through close collaboration and iterative problem-solving. In this talk, we share the consulting journey behind designing and implementing a GAMS-based decision-support system at Alpro—a leader in plant-based food production. Far beyond just a technical deployment, this project was a masterclass in managing complexity, aligning stakeholders, and building trust.
We’ll explore the real-world challenges faced by our consulting team: translating on-site planner needs into mathematical logic, managing the messiness of live operational data, and navigating the cultural shift toward automation and dynamic market participation. Through a structured but adaptive process—iterative prototyping and continuous feedback loops—we helped Alpro optimize energy production and conditional bidding on the day-ahead electricity market.
Whether you're an academic researcher, operations leader, or consultant, this talk gives a candid look at what it takes to bridge the gap between sophisticated models and messy real-world implementation.
Keywords
- Decision Support Systems
- Electricity Markets
- Supply Chain Management
Status: accepted
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