Industrial dynamics modelling of supply chains

TLDR

Industrial dynamics modelling of real‑life supply chains has recently resurged after a long gestation period. Building an adequate model of an existing or proposed real‑life supply chain requires people‑based, observation‑based, and systems‑knowledge‑based sources, and the paper illustrates each approach. The study shows that this methodology is powerful for predicting and prioritizing re‑engineering methods to enhance performance for all chain participants, and predicts benefits from substantial re‑engineering of an electronics products supply chain.

Abstract

The use of industrial dynamics modelling of real‐life supply chains has only recently re‐emerged from the shadows after a lengthy gestation period. Shows that it is a powerful methodology for predicting and prioritizing methods of re‐engineering the chain in order to achieve enhanced performance when viewed from the perspective of all “players” in the chain. Building an adequate model of an existing, or proposed, real‐life supply chain requires the use of people‐based sources, observation‐based sources, and systems‐knowledge‐based sources. Illustrates each of these approaches. Concludes with predicting the benefits expected from substantial re‐engineering of an electronics products supply chain.