J. Hammant, S.M. Disney, P. Childerhouse and M.M. Naim
Describes the use of a decision support system (DSS) in part of a strategic supply chain initiative of an international automotive aftermarket organisation undertaken in 1996‐97…
Abstract
Describes the use of a decision support system (DSS) in part of a strategic supply chain initiative of an international automotive aftermarket organisation undertaken in 1996‐97. The strategic initiative consisted of four distinct stages; a review of the current state, definition of the future vision, development of the operational blueprint and its implementation. A simulation based decision support system was developed by the academic team to aid the decision making in the definition of the future vision. The paper documents, models and simulates the development of supply chain structures in the automotive aftermarket sector in relation to the historical, present and predicted future market trends. The characteristics of the supply chain in terms of number of players, consolidation, market and customer requirements are given. Suitable measures of performance (MOPs) are defined and classified as either market qualifiers or order winners. Aggregate MOPs include quality, service time, service level and total logistics costs. Sample simulation results from the DSS are outlined.
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C.S. Lalwani, S.M. Disney and M.M. Naim
The design of distribution networks is prone to risks due to the uncertainties associated with factors that change over time. The purpose of this paper is to present a new method…
Abstract
Purpose
The design of distribution networks is prone to risks due to the uncertainties associated with factors that change over time. The purpose of this paper is to present a new method to identify those factors that the structure of a distribution network is most sensitive to.
Design/methodology/approach
A new method presented in this paper combines simulation and the Taguchi technique to allow a wide range of factor uncertainties to be evaluated without excessive computation time and effort. The simulation model developed is based on real world data of a European after‐sales business in the automotive industry.
Findings
The optimum design is most at risk due to the uncertainties associated with stock holding costs and delivery frequencies rather than customer volume changes and transport tariffs. This was found to be counterintuitive by the business managers and fore‐warned them of the likely future risks.
Practical implications
The analysis indicates that when developing the network a careful consideration has to be given to reliably estimating the inventory holding costs and the mechanism for determining the capital holding charge. The model is sensitive to these variables and hence a company is prone to higher risk of designing the wrong network if these variables are incorrectly estimated. Furthermore, the analysis suggests that higher customer expectations on delivery frequency have an impact on total logistics costs and therefore, companies should consider charging customers different rates for different levels of customer service.
Originality/value
A useful generic method has been presented in this paper for investigating the sensitivity of a scenario. This novel approach combines the use of simulation, brainstorming, Taguchi technique and ANOVA with distribution design modelling.
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Cengiz Kahraman, Nüfer Yasin Ateş, Sezi Çevik, Murat Gülbay and S. Ayça Erdoğan
To develop a multi‐attribute decision making model for evaluating and selecting among logistic information technologies.
Abstract
Purpose
To develop a multi‐attribute decision making model for evaluating and selecting among logistic information technologies.
Design/methodology/approach
First a multi‐attribute decision making model for logistic information technology evaluation and selection consisting of 4 main and 11 sub criteria is constructed, then a hierarchical fuzzy TOPSIS method is developed to solve the complex selection problem with vague and linguistic data. Sensitivity analysis is presented.
Findings
Reviews the literature and provides a structured hierarchical model for logistic information technology evaluation and selection based on the premise that the logistic information technology evaluation and selection problem can be viewed as a product of tangible benefits, intangible benefits, policy issues and resources. Defines tangible benefits as cost savings, increased revenue, and return on investment; intangible benefits as customer satisfaction, quality of information, multiple uses of information, and setting tone for future business; policy issues as risk and necessity level; resources as costs and completion time. Presents a methodology that is developed for the complex, uncertain and vague characteristics of the problem.
Research limitations/implications
Comparisons with other multi‐attribute decision making techniques such as AHP, ELECTRE, PROMETHEE and ORESTE under fuzzy conditions can be done for further research.
Practical implications
This article is a very useful source of information both for logistic managers and stakeholders in making decisions about logistic information technology investments.
Originality/value
This paper addresses the logistic information technology evaluation and selection criteria for practitioners and proposes a new multi‐attribute decision making methodology, hierarchical fuzzy TOPSIS, for the problem.
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Editorial This special issue of Industrial Management & Data Systems is a huge departure from our usual journal/ monograph style. This is an additional issue to the year's volume…
Abstract
Editorial This special issue of Industrial Management & Data Systems is a huge departure from our usual journal/ monograph style. This is an additional issue to the year's volume — a bonus in fact.
Francesco Pomponi, Luciano Fratocchi and Silvia Rossi Tafuri
The purpose of this article is to provide academicians and practitioners alike with a theory-based framework regarding horizontal collaboration in logistics. The proposed tool is…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this article is to provide academicians and practitioners alike with a theory-based framework regarding horizontal collaboration in logistics. The proposed tool is based on an incremental perspective, according to two main dimensions: mutual trust among partners and the extent of the cooperation.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a “synthesising” approach to gauge potential contributions previously spread across different streams of research and disciplines that are now integrated into the framework. We conduct a deep literature review to characterise the horizontal collaboration phenomenon along two levels of analysis. In doing so, we examined relevant literature in the field of horizontal cooperation in logistics to critically appraise aims of, impediments to and existing models for horizontal collaboration. Additionally, we reviewed seminal literature of four organisational theories to assess their potential to contribute to the theoretical foundations of the growing topic of horizontal collaboration. Transaction Cost Economics, Social Exchange, Resource Dependence and Social Dilemma represent the theoretical foundations to cast light to how to design and implement inter-organisational horizontal initiatives.
Findings
The proposed tool organises horizontal collaborations within three steps for each of the two levels of classification: trust and extent of the cooperation. The organisational theories reviewed play different roles to help in different stages of the horizontal collaboration. Additionally, for each combination of trust/extent of the cooperation coherent pairs of aims of the collaboration and assets that are to be shared are defined.
Research limitations/implications
The article represents the first attempt to analyse horizontal collaboration from within the discipline itself and from the wider field of SCM through other well-established theoretical lenses. The proposed tool has shed some light into the black box of (un)successful horizontal collaboration, but it is theory based – which represents its main limitations – thus, requiring further testing of the research streams suggested in the paper.
Practical implications
The article not only gives insights into theoretical challenges of horizontal collaborations that needs further investigation but is also useful to companies involved in horizontal collaborations by helping define coherent assets that are to be shared to achieve specific goals. In its more theoretical underpinning, the framework can also inspire the partnership philosophy and help sketch a collaborative evolutionary path.
Originality/value
The lack of a theoretically robust landmark that could help understand, design and implement horizontal collaborations has been defined as a major theoretical and practical shortcoming. The article represents the first contribution aimed at filling that gap.
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This issue contains abstract under the following headings: Logistics & Distribution Strategy; Supply Chain Management; IT in Logistics & Distribution; Just‐in‐Time Management; and…
Abstract
This issue contains abstract under the following headings: Logistics & Distribution Strategy; Supply Chain Management; IT in Logistics & Distribution; Just‐in‐Time Management; and Accounting for Logistics.
Lori N.K. Leonard and Christine Clemons Davis
This study seeks to determine whether electronic supply chains using electronic data interchange (EDI) are more successful than non‐electronic supply chains using manual (paper…
Abstract
Purpose
This study seeks to determine whether electronic supply chains using electronic data interchange (EDI) are more successful than non‐electronic supply chains using manual (paper) purchase orders by analyzing the supplier‐manufacturer link in the SC.
Design/methodology/approach
Identical products are analyzed before‐and‐after EDI implementation in an organization, therefore representing both electronic supply chain products and non‐electronic supply chain products.
Findings
The empirical findings indicate that the EDI supply chain is more effective than the manual supply chain in terms of: shorter order cycles, greater availability, lower (purchase) price, and lower (transaction) cost.
Originality/value
The present research study provides for a number of future research possibilities. First, the present research study focuses only on the supplier‐manufacturer link of the SC. Other links in the SC (manufacturer‐distributor, distributor‐retail outlet, and retail outlet‐customer) should be analyzed for products that have been replenished manually and then replenished using EDI.
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Mohamed Syazwan Ab Talib, Abu Bakar Abdul Hamid and Mohd Hafiz Zulfakar
The aim of this study is to discover the critical success factors (CSFs) for the Halal supply chain management because this area is gaining recognition. Plus, the aim is to use…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to discover the critical success factors (CSFs) for the Halal supply chain management because this area is gaining recognition. Plus, the aim is to use the CSFs for future research.
Design/methodology/approach
The study is based on the application of CSFs on the Halal supply chain. A comprehensive literature review is undertaken to discover the CSFs of conventional supply chain and to apply it to the Halal supply chain.
Findings
Government support, transportation planning, information technology, human resource management, collaborative relationship, Halal certification and Halal traceability are the CSFs for the Halal supply chain.
Research limitations/implications
This study only discusses the CSFs related to the Halal supply chain and ignoring other forms of Halal businesses. This study only concerns on English literatures and omit other languages. The study lacks empirical evidence and future research should be done to test the CSFs relevancy.
Practical implications
This study addresses stakeholders of the Halal supply chain CSFs, which have not been fully understand and appreciated.
Originality/value
CSFs concept has never been attempted on the Halal supply chain. Therefore, this study appraises the concept of CSFs and adds value to the knowledge on the Halal supply chain.
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The purpose of this paper is to review a sample of the literature relating to the integration and implementation of supply chain management practices from a strategic viewpoint.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review a sample of the literature relating to the integration and implementation of supply chain management practices from a strategic viewpoint.
Design/methodology/approach
The literature is examined from three perspectives. First, supply chain integration covers issues relating to integration of core processes across organizational boundaries through improved communication, partnerships, alliances and cooperation. Second, strategy and planning examines supply chain management as a strategic matter for trading partners, along with factors relating to the amount of planning required. Third, implementation issues concern factors critical for successful implementation, as well as issues specific to inter and intra‐organizational aspects of supply chain initiatives are contained in this sub‐group
Findings
An important emergent theme from the literature is the importance of taking a holistic view, and the systemic nature of interactions between the participants. At the same time, it is also apparent that this requirement to take such an holistic and systemic view of the supply chain acts as an impediment to more extensive implementation. The strategic nature of adopting a supply chain wide perspective, on the one hand provides significant potential benefit, and on the other requires trading partners to think and act strategically. This is easier said than done within a stand‐alone organization, let alone across a diverse and dispersed group of trading partners.
Research limitations/implications
The scope of this review is by design limited to a cross‐section of the literature in this area. As such, it cannot, and does not, attempt to be an examination of the full range of the literature, but a sampling of important and influential works.
Practical implications
This review of the literature serves to highlight the inter‐dependence between integration (technologies, logistics, and partnerships), a strategic view of supply chain systems, and implementation approach. All three need to inform and underpin each other in order for management of supply chains to be able to deliver on the promise of benefits for all trading partners.
Originality/value
This study reviews a sample of recent and classic literature in this field, and in doing so provides some clear guidelines for the conduct of future research.
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Andrew Greasley and Anand Assi
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the “last mile” delivery link between a hub and spoke distribution system and its customers. The proportion of retail, as opposed to…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the “last mile” delivery link between a hub and spoke distribution system and its customers. The proportion of retail, as opposed to non‐retail (trade) customers using this type of distribution system has been growing in the UK. The paper shows the applicability of simulation to demonstrate changes in overall delivery policy to these customers.
Design/methodology/approach
A case‐based research method was chosen with the aim to provide an exemplar of practice and test the proposition that simulation can be used as a tool to investigate changes in delivery policy.
Findings
The results indicate the potential improvement in delivery performance, specifically in meeting timed delivery performance, that could be made by having separate retail and non‐retail delivery runs from the spoke terminal to the customer.
Research limitations/implications
The simulation study does not attempt to generate a vehicle routing schedule but demonstrates the effects of a change on delivery performance when comparing delivery policies.
Practical implications
Scheduling and spreadsheet software are widely used and provide useful assistance in the design of delivery runs and the allocation of staff to those delivery runs. This paper demonstrates to managers the usefulness of investigating the efficacy of current design rules and presents simulation as a suitable tool for this analysis.
Originality/value
A simulation model is used in a novel application to test a change in delivery policy in response to a changing delivery profile of increased retail deliveries.