Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for improving planning, scheduling, and supply chain management. Various embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for managing inventory of different types of items in a supply chain. One aspect of the invention focuses on a method for managing inventory of similar items in a supply chain. The method includes determining a flow path for items in a supply chain, wherein the flow path comprises at least one operation. The method also includes receiving inventory data for items at each operation; storing the inventory data; determining a demand factor for the items; and determining a cost factor for the items. The method further includes based in part on the demand factor and the cost factor, determining an exchange curve for the items; and displaying a portion of the inventory data for the items and the exchange curve.