Decision making in supply chains using simulation : a methodological approach
Part of : MIBES Transactions : international journal ; Vol.3, No.1, 2009, pages 80-90
Issue:
Pages:
80-90
Abstract:
The integrated analysis and optimization of today's complex supply chains that combine production and distribution are highly challenging both for the academic/research community and the supply chain partners. The traditional operational research models have been proven incapable to describe the complexity of global supply chains. The development and adoption of simulation based techniques seems to be the only reliable solution for modelling and testing the efficiency of a business system, as they support decision-making by studying simultaneously the effect of various critical factors. This paper aims to develop a methodological framework that analyses, models and studies the operations of a supply chain using simulation. The proposed framework is based on Petri Nets theory; Petri Nets has been used successfully applied in the literature for a valid mathematical representation of systems with discrete time transitions. Moreover, the combination of Petri Nets with the Activity Cycle Diagrams provides a valid simulation modelling and a quite simple simulation program development. The framework is presented through its implementation on the supply chain of a Ready Mixed Concrete Unit, located in Northern Greece. Specifically, the probability distributions of the stochastic variables are estimated using historical production data and the simulation model is built using Petri Nets, Activity Cycle Diagrams and the SimulSI® software. Then, the validity and verification of the model is tested. Statistical analysis of experiments ( 'what-if' scenarios ) is conducted and optimal decisions are proposed accordingly, regarding technological and resource investment. Finally, the paper provides future research directions.
Subject (LC):
Keywords:
simulation, modelling, decision making, Petri Nets
Notes:
Περιέχει σχήματα, σχεδιαγράμματα και βιβλιογραφία
