When you have a clearer picture of the supply chain situation plus a radar of the future then you understand what to do and when you must act. Basically, you can monitor a developing situation and if the seriousness of the situation changes then you can act in a more timely measured way.
The models are run based on quantities of products and materials. However, the software provides the ability to add costs for all activities. Therefore, the schedules can be converted to either costs or analyze profitability impact. Keep in mind that you generate schedules based on inventories quantities and you adjust risk to customer service based on safety stock levels. You can certainly reduce inventory and costs which may benefit the short term. However if you go too far and hurt customer services levels then it may have an impact on future sales.