There are three common pitfalls that companies face with merchandise planning that can lead to failure or disappointing results: 1) Complexity - Companies often try to implement overly complex plans with too many metrics before gaining experience, overwhelming planners and wasting time. 2) Lack of process and structure - Without a defined planning process and strategy, it is difficult to set goals and timelines. Role and responsibilities need to be clear. 3) Poor adoption and buy-in - Effective change management through communication, training and executive support is needed to increase adoption of new planning processes within the organization.