Synergy Of Incident Management And Real-Time Technology: The Next Step In The Evolution Of Supply Chain Management

Gregory W Ulferts,Evan Peterson

doi:10.19030/jber.v6i9.2472

Abstract

Over the last two decades, the culture of the supply chain environment has transformed from one of mass production and distribution to one centered on pull-based demand sensing and response.&nbsp; This transformation, in turn, has necessitated the use of more efficient supply chain operations.&nbsp; One of the cornerstones of efficient supply chain operations is just-in-time (JIT) delivery and inventory reduction, both in-transit and in-facility (Anderson et al 2003, Simchi-Levi et al 2000). &nbsp;The goal of JIT, a sub-part of a larger concept referred to as time-critical logistics (TCL), is to facilitate the delivery of materials only as they are required.&nbsp; This practice, in turn, leads to improved efficiency by reducing inventory costs and idled capacity.&nbsp; In addition, JIT provides increased customer orientation and responsiveness; two very critical elements in an environment of intense competition and rising fuel prices.&nbsp; A vital part of JIT is the routing and scheduling of shipments.&nbsp; Therefore, in order to effectively manage JIT, accurate predictions of routes and travel times are essential. (Miller et al 1999).&nbsp; The JIT approach has dramatically increased the importance of reliability and efficiency throughout supply chain operations, in such areas as the sourcing of goods, transportation, manufacturing, and distribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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