SMARTAPS: Tool-augmented LLMs for Operations Management

TL;DR

SmartAPS leverages large language models to create an accessible, conversational planning system for operations management, enabling planners to interact naturally and perform complex analysis without high costs.

Contribution

We introduce SmartAPS, a novel tool-augmented LLM system that provides an intuitive interface for operations planning, reducing reliance on costly traditional advanced planning systems.

Findings

Enhanced user interaction with operations data

Facilitated counterfactual reasoning and scenario analysis

Reduced costs compared to traditional APS

Abstract

Large language models (LLMs) present intriguing opportunities to enhance user interaction with traditional algorithms and tools in real-world applications. An advanced planning system (APS) is a sophisticated software that leverages optimization to help operations planners create, interpret, and modify an operational plan. While highly beneficial, many customers are priced out of using an APS due to the ongoing costs of consultants responsible for customization and maintenance. To address the need for a more accessible APS expressed by supply chain planners, we present SmartAPS, a conversational system built on a tool-augmented LLM. Our system provides operations planners with an intuitive natural language chat interface, allowing them to query information, perform counterfactual reasoning, receive recommendations, and execute scenario analysis to better manage their operation. A short video demonstrating the system has been released: https://youtu.be/KtIrJjlDbyw