Mastering PSO: DNASTREAM Shares Insights at IFS PSO Day 2025

Last week, DNASTREAM proudly participated in the IFS PSO Day 2025—an event that brought industry leaders together to share insights and experiences around optimising dynamic scheduling and workforce planning using IFS’s Planning and Scheduling Optimisation (PSO) solution. Represented by our Operations Director Debbie Turner and Head of Asset & Service Solutions Ben Callow (it was hard to miss Ben during the event, as his protective boot - a result of a recent ankle injury - became an unexpected discussion starter), we were in good company amongst other innovators and trusted advisors.

Spotlight on Ben Callow’s Panel Contributions

Ben Callow participated in two engaging panel discussions moderated by Mark Brewer from IFS. These discussions addressed crucial themes, sparking thought-provoking conversations that resonated strongly with attendees.

Panel 1: Systems that Feed PSO – Integration

Ben drew on DNASTREAM’s wealth of experience to shed light on the challenges of integrating systems with PSO, particularly when dealing with legacy infrastructure. He likened preparing data to a “spring-clean,” stressing the importance of ensuring data is thoroughly ready—clean, organised, and of high quality—before embarking on PSO implementation. This preparatory step, he explained, is crucial to ensure the system performs as intended.

He also delved into the role of integration ease, highlighting the advantages of utilising IFS’s open APIs and middleware solutions to create a seamless connection between PSO and existing systems. These tools, he noted, are designed to reduce friction and streamline workflows during integration.

However, the discussion wasn’t without its share of challenges. Ben recognised the inherent rigidity and inefficiencies often embedded within legacy systems, pointing out the need for careful navigation of these hurdles to ensure they don’t impede progress.

The panel wasn’t purely theoretical; it addressed real-world concerns raised by attendees. Questions such as “What does it take to prepare data successfully?” and “How do you maintain smooth workflows before, during, and after implementation?” were discussed, offering actionable insights and practical advice.

Panel 2: Partnering with IFS: Leveraging Domain Experts and Involving Your Business

Ben shared thoughtful insights on the importance of partnership when implementing PSO, highlighting the dynamic collaboration between DNASTREAM, its clients, and IFS. He underscored the role of DNASTREAM as more than just a service provider—positioning the company as a trusted advisor that empowers client teams to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. This partnership, he explained, is rooted in mutual trust, expertise, and a shared commitment to success.

Moving on, Ben described the attributes of organisations most likely to thrive with PSO. Success, he argued, often comes down to readiness, maturity, and active involvement. Businesses that dedicate time to preparing their teams and processes are better equipped to adapt and excel throughout the implementation journey.

Ben also touched on what sets leading organisations apart from those that struggle. Clear steps to success include embracing change, engaging users at an early stage, and adopting agile, iterative practices that refine processes over time. These qualities, he noted, are hallmarks of organisations that rise above the challenges of transformation and set themselves on a path to long-term success.

Finally, Ben offered practical advice for organisations preparing to make the leap into PSO. He emphasised the importance of involving the entire business from the outset—ensuring every team feels part of the process. Data readiness was a recurring theme, with Ben urging companies to prioritise clean, organised, and accessible data early on. Beyond implementation, he stressed that ongoing organisational improvement post-go-live is critical for making transformation a sustainable reality.

DNASTREAM’s Core Messages

At DNASTREAM, our contributions to this PSO Day focused on amplifying proven strategies, technical expertise, and practical advice for organisations embarking on their PSO journey. The following insights were central to our involvement:

• Change Management: Transformation requires emotional investment. The importance of engaging users early, building “Champion Networks,” and maintaining feedback loops to ensure the journey is inclusive and successful, should not be under-estimated.

• Technical Readiness: “Early and Rigorous Data Readiness” is non-negotiable for PSO success. Think of it as a foundational spring-clean, enabling PSO’s optimisation engine to function at its very best.

• Integration Excellence: With IFS’s open architecture and APIs, integration can be simplified—but special attention must be given to overcoming legacy system complexities.

• Continuous Improvement Post-Go-Live: Optimisation doesn’t end with implementation. Measurable KPIs, refinements to business rules, and iterative enhancements are crucial for unlocking full value from PSO systems.

• Partnership Value: A good partner acts as more than just a vendor or service provider—they’re a collaborative force that empowers, guides, and builds long-lasting trust with client teams.

DNASTREAM’s Commitment to PSO Innovation

We extend a huge thank you to IFS for hosting such an enriching event and to all the attendees for the energetic discussions. Events like these are an opportunity for us to share our knowledge and learn from others in the ecosystem.

As DNASTREAM continues to champion agile transformations with our deep change management and technical expertise, we are excited to support organisations in unlocking the full potential of PSO solutions and driving sustained value throughout their operations.

Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with Debbie Turner or Ben Callow to discuss how DNASTREAM can contribute to your digital journey.