Information flow-centric approach for reverse logistics supply chains

Abstract

Reverse logistics supply chain (RLSC) helps resources recovery at the End-of-life (EoL) of buildings. However, there is a huge potential for improving the existing RLSC through systematic information management. Very little research has been carried out on the interactions between RLSC operations and information needs for an efficient and effective resources recovery process. This study proposes a conceptual model of a building information model that could effectively address the information needs during demolition, testing, grading and reprocessing of salvaged materials. The study uses semi-structured interviews and action research to identify information needs and Building Information Modelling (BIM) functionalities to develop the conceptual model using an Application Programming Interface (API) plug-in. The model when fully developed can extract the volumes of salvage, sorting, testing, reprocessing and integrate that information for optimised resources recovery. The extracted information in a single platform can help demolition planners and recyclers to design downstream operations, particularly testing and grading of salvaged products enabling an information flow-centric reverse logistics supply chain.