what are what if scenarios

A what-if scenario is the analysis of fictional situations to best determine how altering elements will impact the overall outcome. On a strategic level, shippers can model what-if scenarios to see how altering elements, such as a change in suppliers, customer acquisition or increasing the number of cross-docks, will impact costs and transportation before implementing them. When designing what-if scenarios, factoring in the effects the changes would have on all aspects of an operation, can help shape both short- and long-term decisions.