A decision support system to facilitate warehouse order fulfillment in cross‐border supply chain

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a decision support system (DSS) to enhance the performance of cross‐border supply chain, the goal of which is to improve order planning and fulfill customer orders within the warehouse.

Design/methodology/approach

An intelligent DSS, namely order picking planning system (OPPS) with the adoption of case‐based reasoning, is proposed to support managers in making appropriate order fulfilling decisions when an order involves cross‐border activities. Similar cases in the past are retrieved and adapted in reference to the new order. A case study is then conducted to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the system.

Findings

Recommendations are given to replace the objective decision‐making process in cross‐border supply chain with the help of the DSS. The warehouse order planning time has been reduced and useful information from past order records can be applied to solve new problems.

Originality/value

With the increasing demand for material sourcing across different places, cross‐border supply chain has raised the concern for manufacturers to seek lower material and rental costs. The focus on warehouse operations can increase efficiency in order delivery by considering cross‐border requirements.

Citation

Lam, C.H.Y., Choy, K.L. and Chung, S.H. (2011), "A decision support system to facilitate warehouse order fulfillment in cross‐border supply chain", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 22 No. 8, pp. 972-983. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410381111177430