Introduction

Forecasting in shipbuilding is one of the toughest challenges in manufacturing. Projects span years, demand fluctuates with global trade and defense budgets, and supply chain risks constantly evolve.

A Deloitte study (2024) reported that forecast deviation in shipbuilding exceeds 25%, leading to missed deadlines and cost overruns.

Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud improves forecast reliability by combining account-based forecasting, AI insights, and supplier collaboration, ensuring that shipbuilders can plan production and revenue with confidence.

The Importance of Forecasting in Shipbuilding & Marine Manufacturing

Reliable forecasts enable:

• Production Planning → Allocate yard resources efficiently.
• Financial Predictability → Stable revenue recognition.
• Supplier Coordination → Ensure timely component delivery.
• Risk Management → Adjust to global trade disruptions.

Challenges in Forecasting Marine Manufacturing Demand

1. Long Build Times & Project Uncertainty

• Vessels take years to build.
• Forecasts must adapt to changing conditions.

2. Geopolitical & Trade Fluctuations

• Defense budgets shift with politics.
• Commercial demand depends on global trade flows.

3. Supply Chain Volatility

• Steel, electronics, and engine shortages disrupt plans.
• Long lead times make forecasting harder.

4. Fragmented Forecasting Tools

• Spreadsheets dominate marine forecasting.
• No unified system for accuracy.

5. Multi-Segment Complexity (Commercial vs. Defense)

• Different forecasting models for cargo ships vs. naval vessels.
• Managing both adds complexity.

How Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud Improves Forecast Reliability

1. Account-Based Forecasting for Marine Clients

• Forecast demand at the contract/client level.
• Aligns production capacity with client commitments.

2. AI-Powered Predictive Demand Models

• Einstein AI integrates market, trade, and budget data.
• Improves forecast accuracy by 20–30%.

3. ERP & Yard Production Integration

• Connects Salesforce with ERP and yard management.
• Provides a unified view of forecasts vs. production schedules.

4. Supplier & Partner Forecast Collaboration

• Suppliers access forecasts via portals.
• Enables joint planning to reduce delays.

5. Scenario Planning & Risk Modeling

• Simulates disruptions: steel shortages, trade shifts, budget cuts.
• Provides proactive alternatives.

Case Study: Forecast Accuracy in Marine Manufacturing with Salesforce

A global shipbuilder producing both naval and commercial vessels faced:

• • Forecast deviation of 27% annually.
  • Cost overruns from supplier misalignment.

After Salesforce:

• Forecast accuracy improved to 93%.
• On-time delivery increased by 20%.
• Supplier disputes dropped significantly.

The Future of Forecasting in Shipbuilding & Marine

• Digital Twins → Simulate shipbuilding projects in real time.
• Blockchain Forecasting → Tamper-proof demand signals.
• AI-Driven Risk Alerts → Predict global trade shocks.
• Sustainability Forecasts → Carbon tracking in forecasts.

Conclusion

Forecast reliability is the foundation of profitable shipbuilding. Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud enables marine manufacturers to:

• Forecast at the account/contract level
• Leverage AI for demand accuracy
• Integrate ERP & yard systems
• Collaborate with suppliers transparently
• Plan scenarios proactively

With Salesforce, shipbuilders can turn uncertainty into predictability and trust.

🌊 Ready to improve forecast reliability in shipbuilding?

👉 [Book a Manufacturing Cloud Strategy Session with Perigeon]