Challenge
DFS wanted to improve their in-store experience for customers. Their existing system failed to accurately forecast demand, and their approach to scheduling often left money on the table. Given that sales reps earn commission on in-store sales, they also wanted schedules that gave reps equal opportunity to earn commission.
Solution
We built a demand forecasting model which used historical footfall, sales data and weather to produce hourly foot-fall predictions, 10 weeks in advance. Using those forecasts, we then optimised staff schedules, suggesting the exact employees needed to serve hourly demand.