Efficient Supply Chain Operations Research Articles

Considering economic-environmental dimension in the integrated strategic and tactical optimization of Ethiopia's bioethanol supply chain coupled with operational planning

The global supply chain has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its intricate nature and operational challenges. Companies face the crucial task of integrating various components to maintain competitiveness and enhance overall performance across the supply chain. Achieving this goal necessitates vertical integration to ensure coherence and coordination among decision-making processes at different temporal and spatial scales, bridging the gap between strategic, tactical, and operational decisions. This article proposes a mathematical model that integrates the three previous decisions within the supply chain context, aiming to maintain coherence while considering economic and environmental objectives (few papers cover this challenge). By addressing the complexities of multi-scale modeling and optimization, the model seeks to provide a holistic view of supply chain operations. The model focuses on the transport decisions at the operational level, resulting in the coupling between a strategic and tactical model and a vehicle routing problem. Nonetheless, achieving this integration effectively from a modeling and resolution point of view leads to computational and methodological challenges due to the multi-scale, multi-site, and multi-objective nature of the problem, requiring an innovative approach for effective model resolution. The contributions of this article pave the way towards more sustainable and efficient supply chain operations. The model capabilities are exemplified through the real case study of the bioethanol supply chain in Ethiopia. For the location of the different firms of the supply chain, the country is divided into 58 zones (second level administrative subdivision in Ethiopia) to have a precise mapping of the area. The result of the case study shows that in adding the operational level decisions to the strategic-tactical ones has not only changed the topology of the network configurations but has greatly affected the economic and environmental criteria due to more precise estimation of all activities. The results put also in highlight that there is a compromise to find between both previous objectives by identifying Pareto alternative scenarios.

Smart Cities and Smart Supply Chain: Integration for Sustainable Urban Development.

As urbanization accelerates globally, the concept of smart cities emerges as a promising solution to address the multifaceted challenges of sustainable urban development. Smart cities leverage advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life for their residents. Concurrently, the evolution of supply chain management towards smart supply chains has gained traction, driven by the imperative of optimizing logistics, minimizing waste, and enhancing resilience. This paper explores the integration of smart cities and smart supply chains as a holistic approach to foster sustainable urban development. The integration of smart cities and smart supply chains presents a symbiotic relationship wherein advancements in one domain catalyze improvements in the other. Smart cities rely on seamless and efficient supply chain operations to ensure the smooth flow of goods and services, essential for meeting the needs of urban inhabitants. [1],[2] Conversely, smart supply chains benefit from the data-rich environment and infrastructure of smart cities to optimize routing, inventory management, and last-mile delivery, thereby reducing environmental impact and enhancing overall efficiency. Key components of this integration include the utilization of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology to enable real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and transparent, secure transactions throughout the urban supply chain. By harnessing these technologies, cities can achieve significant improvements in resource utilization, energy efficiency, and carbon footprint reduction. Furthermore, the paper examines the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) and regulatory frameworks in facilitating the integration of smart cities and smart supply chains. Collaborative efforts between government entities, industry stakeholders, and technology providers are essential to overcome barriers such as data privacy concerns, interoperability challenges, and investment constraints. In conclusion, the integration of smart cities and smart supply chains represents a promising pathway towards achieving the goals of sustainability, resilience, and prosperity in urban environments. By embracing innovative technologies and fostering collaboration, cities can pave the way for a more efficient, equitable, and environmentally conscious future.

Blockchain technology for supply chain provenance: increasing supply chain efficiency and consumer trust

PurposeThis study aims to examine the blockchain landscape in supply chain management by drawing insights from academic and industry literature. It identifies the key drivers, categorizes the products involved and highlights the business values achieved by early adopters of blockchain technology within the supply chain domain. Additionally, it explores fingerprinting techniques to establish a robust connection between physical products and the blockchain ledger.Design/methodology/approachThe authors combined the interpretive sensemaking systematic literature review to offer insights into how organizations interpreted their business challenges and adopted blockchain technology in their specific supply chain context; content analysis (using Leximancer automated text mining software) for concept mapping visualization, facilitating the identification of key themes, trends and relationships, and qualitative thematic analysis (NVivo) for data organization, coding and enhancing the depth and efficiency of analysis.FindingsThe findings highlight the transformative potential of blockchain technology and offer valuable insights into its implementation in optimizing supply chain operations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of product provenance information to consumers, with blockchain technology offering certainty and increasing customer loyalty toward brands that prioritize transparency.Research limitations/implicationsThis research has several limitations that should be acknowledged. First, there is a possibility that some relevant investigations may have been missed or omitted, which could impact the findings. In addition, the limited availability of literature on blockchain adoption in supply chains may restrict the scope of the conclusions. The evolving nature of blockchain adoption in supply chains also poses a limitation. As the technology is in its infancy, the authors expect that a rapidly emerging body of literature will provide more extensive evidence-based general conclusions in the future. Another limitation is the lack of information contrasting academic and industry research, which could have provided more balanced insights into the technology’s advancement. The authors attributed this limitation to the narrow collaborations between academia and industry in the field of blockchain for supply chain management.Practical implicationsPractitioners recognize the potential of blockchain in addressing industry-specific challenges, such as ensuring transparency and data provenance. Understanding the benefits achieved by early adopters can serve as a starting point for companies considering blockchain adoption. Blockchain technology can verify product origin, enable truthful certifications and comply with established standards, reinforcing trust among stakeholders and customers. Thus, implementing blockchain solutions can enhance brand reputation and consumer confidence by ensuring product authenticity and quality. Based on the results, companies can align their strategies and initiatives with their needs and expectations.Social implicationsIn essence, the integration of blockchain technology within supply chain provenance initiatives not only influences economic aspects but also brings substantial social impacts by reinforcing consumer trust, encouraging sustainable and ethical practices, combating product counterfeiting, empowering stakeholders and contributing to a more responsible, transparent and progressive socioeconomic environment.Originality/valueThis study consolidates current knowledge on blockchain’s capacity and identifies the specific drivers and business values associated with early blockchain adoption in supply chain provenance. Furthermore, it underscores the critical role of product fingerprinting techniques in supporting blockchain for supply chain provenance, facilitating more robust and efficient supply chain operations.

Assessing organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behavior in ensuring the smoothness of the supply chain for medical hospital needs towards a green hospital: Evidence from Indonesia

This research examined the relationships between Organizational Commitment, Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB), the Supply Chain, and Green Hospital practices in a healthcare setting. A cross-sectional study was conducted using self-reported data from healthcare employees. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the relationships and mediation effects. The study confirmed that Organizational Commitment positively impacts the Supply Chain and Green Hospital practices. Similarly, Organizational Citizenship Behavior significantly influences the Supply Chain and Green Hospital initiatives. The Supply Chain was found to have a positive impact on Green Hospital practices and served as a mediator in the relationships between Organizational Commitment and Green Hospital and Organizational Citizenship Behavior and Green Hospital. The research provides valuable insights for healthcare organizations seeking to enhance their sustainability efforts. Fostering Organizational Commitment and Organizational Citizenship Behavior among employees can contribute to more efficient supply chain operations and environmentally responsible practices. The study underscores the crucial role of supply chain management in translating commitment and proactive behaviors into tangible sustainability initiatives. The research is context-specific, and using self-reported data and a cross-sectional design may limit generalizability. Future studies should explore these relationships in diverse settings and consider longitudinal or mixed-method approaches.

The impact of the COVID-19 prevention and economic interventions on express delivery industry: Evidence from China

As a fundamental logistics service, the express delivery (ED) industry provides production and consumption activities to maintain efficient supply chain operations. It plays an important role in promoting industrial development and maintaining daily life and consumption. This study examined the effects of COVID-19 on the ED industry using ED package delivery data from 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) in China. Using a difference-in-differences method, the COVID-19 outbreak was found to have a positive effect and epidemic prevention and control (EPC) policies were found to have negative effects on the development of the ED industry. In addition to EPC policies, the Chinese government has implemented other short-term economic interventions (SEI), such as the resumption of work and production (RWP), policies to balance economic growth, and epidemic prevention. This study divided the pandemic period into three stages to analyze the different impacts of EPC and SEI policy changes on the ED industry. The RWP policies adopted during the pandemic positively impacted the volume and income of packages delivered to the ED industry. The conclusions of this study are significant for the ED industry in addressing public health emergencies and for the Chinese government to formulate EPC and SEI policies during epidemic periods.

Blockchain-Based Secure Storage and Access Control Scheme for Supply Chain Ecological Business Data: A Case Study of the Automotive Industry.

The reliable circulation of automotive supply chain data is crucial for automotive manufacturers and related enterprises as it promotes efficient supply chain operations and enhances their competitiveness and sustainability. However, with the increasing prominence of privacy protection and information security issues, traditional data sharing solutions are no longer able to meet the requirements for highly reliable secure storage and flexible access control. In response to this demand, we propose a secure data storage and access control scheme for the supply chain ecosystem based on the enterprise-level blockchain platform Hyperledger Fabric. The design incorporates a dual-layer attribute-based auditable access control model for access control, with four smart contracts aimed at coordinating and implementing access policies. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach exhibits significant advantages under large-scale data and multi-attribute conditions. It enables fine-grained, dynamic access control under ciphertext and maintains high throughput and security in simulated real-world operational scenarios.

Utilizing SAP aATP Functionality for Real-Time Product Availability in the Supply Chain

This research paper explores the utilization of SAP Advanced Available-to-Promise (aATP) functionality to enhance real-time product availability in supply chain management. In today’s fast-paced market, the ability to provide accurate product availability information is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and optimizing inventory management. The aATP solution offers organizations the capability to assess inventory levels and fulfillment options in real time, integrating seamlessly with existing SAP systems. This study investigates the key features of SAP aATP, including its demand-driven replenishment, real-time analytics, and enhanced visibility across the supply chain. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including case studies and surveys, the paper analyzes the impact of aATP implementation on order fulfillment rates, inventory turnover, and overall supply chain efficiency. The findings indicate that organizations leveraging aATP experience significant improvements in responsiveness to customer demands and a reduction in stockouts and excess inventory. The paper concludes by discussing best practices for implementing SAP aATP, highlighting its role as a transformative tool in achieving agile and efficient supply chain operations. This research not only contributes to the existing body of knowledge on supply chain optimization but also provides practical insights for businesses seeking to leverage technology to enhance their operational capabilities.

Milk Supply Chain Network Design (SCND)

This study is based on a real-life case study of a SCND of a single milk product (premium milk) of a leading milk producing organization in Odisha. This product is highly perishable in nature; SCND implicates decision-making at a strategic level. Network design is the basis for the efficient operation of supply chain, and consequently, one of the most important problems a supply chain manager has to solve. This study conducts a real-life case-based modeling to address the gap in the area of supply chain network design. The author investigates the milk supply chain network design under preservation technology and propose a generic mathematical model for milk supply chain network design encompassing economic objective. A customized mathematical model is also developed for a leading milk producing organization in Odisha. Both of the models are formulated and solved by using piecewise nonlinear optimization.

An Optimal Purchase Decision of Reusable Packaging in the Automotive Industry

Among the many components of material delivery operations, packaging is one of the foundations of secure and cost-efficient on-time delivery. Current environmental concerns have increased the popularity of returnable packaging over disposable packaging. This study considers a supply chain in the automotive industry where a single supplier adopts returnable packages for delivery operations to a single recipient. If a returnable package is not available, then an expendable package will be used as a more expensive alternative. Thus, an investment decision on the number of returnable packages must be made prior to launching a returnable packaging system. Using the actual data from an automotive supply chain, this study conducts simulated experiments, under the uncertainty of future demand and required lead time of reverse logistics, to identify the optimal quantity of returnable packages. Sensitivity analysis is then performed by varying the assumptions on operation duration, demand variability, and lead time variability. In general, the results indicate that a greater initial purchase of returnable packages is desirable for longer operation duration, higher demand variability, and higher lead time variability. However, if operation duration is short and the uncertainty is high, then there may be little benefit in using reusable packages. These results generalize the findings from previous studies. This approach and solution can enhance reliable and efficient supply chain operations in the automotive industry and may be applied to other industries where packaging is important and expensive.

Visualising working capital at the customer level

A shorter cycle time of working capital (CCC) frees cash from operations. Companies emphasise the meaning of efficient supply chain operations, but also customers can impact the length of the CCC. Working capital management affects customer profitability through the interest costs. If the reasons behind long CCCs of orders are known, managers can pay attention to them. This paper takes the working capital management research to the customer order level, and includes working capital in customer profitability studies. We have studied the reasons behind the long CCCs of certain customers in the context of the paper industry. Four customer-related reasons for a long CCC were found: long credit terms granted to customers, the payment behaviour of customers, problems with deliveries, and problems in invoicing procedures. The paper shows that a long CCC decreases profitability at the order level.

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

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10pt;">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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>This transformation, in turn, has necessitated the use of more efficient supply chain operations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>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). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>This practice, in turn, leads to improved efficiency by reducing inventory costs and idled capacity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>In addition, JIT provides increased customer orientation and responsiveness; two very critical elements in an environment of intense competition and rising fuel prices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>A vital part of JIT is the routing and scheduling of shipments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>Therefore, in order to effectively manage JIT, accurate predictions of routes and travel times are essential. (Miller et al 1999).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span></span></p>

Managing Risk in Supply Chain

This article resulted from our study of 3 manufacturing centric supply chain operations in Singapore through 4 iterations of Action Research (AR) guided by Gowin’s V (Rachan, 2007). Although, there is substantial volume of literature on the topic of Supply Chain Management, it came to our attention during the literature review stage of research process, that major concentration of literature was in SCM design and optimization or supply chain performance benchmarking. Almost all of the literature on Risk issues was found to be focused on Security matters. This study was conducted to identify the main process flows in a Supply Chain. Key characteristics were derived from these process flows. From these key characteristics of the process flow, constraints were identified as a “class” to categorize all potential threats and problems. Thus the potential threats and problems classified are actionable and within the span of control, of the member supply chain network entities. This Model for classification will enable an integrated approach to (i) problem structuring, (ii) problem solving and (iii) learning on potential threats and problem to efficient supply chain operations. In today’s intense competitive market environment, efficient supply chain operations make the difference between profit and growth vs. Loss and closure.

A model for evaluation and selection of suppliers in global textile and apparel supply chains

PurposeThe issue affecting US textile/apparel companies in global business competition is to find suitable suppliers for their operations. The selection and evaluation of their global suppliers to meet the goal of having effective and efficient supply chain operations and strengthening their position in the market become critical for US textile/apparel manufacturers to maintain their competitiveness in today's market. Aims to develop an evaluation model.Design/methodology/approachThe development of a simple, flexible, and easy to use evaluation model that includes the consideration of five main clusters to reflect the performance of a global supplier in a textile/apparel supply chain.FindingsA case presented in this paper shows that the model provides textile/apparel companies with an easy way to evaluate their suppliers and make their selection of suppliers more efficient and effective. Most textile/apparel companies using this model can help them establish strategic alliance with global suppliers to reduce costs and increase competitiveness in the market.Practical implicationsTextile/apparel companies can use this model to find capable suppliers as their partners in the supply chain. With minor modifications, this model also can help companies in most industries for enhancing their supply chain operations with capable suppliers.Originality/valueProvides a simple model that can help companies in many industries enhance their supply chain operations.