Supply Responsiveness Research Articles

EXPLORING THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT FOR SMES: CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS AND THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL UNCERTAINTY

This study looks at how Artificial Intelligence (AI) helps Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) improve their supply chain management, with a focus on important factors that affect its use in uncertain environments. The main goals of this study are to identify key success factors for effective AI integration in supply chains and to examine how identified success factors interact with environmental uncertainties.Using a quantitative approach, the study measures how often SMEs adopt AI, checks their performance indicators, and analyzes how different external uncertainties impact supply chain efficiency. The results show that using AI well can greatly boost the operational efficiency and flexibility of SMEs. Key factors for success include strong leadership support, active employee participation, and a solid technological foundation. Importantly, the research finds that SMEs in unstable environments can better handle risks and quickly adjust to market changes with AI strategies. This is especially relevant for healthcare, where having a strong supply chain is vital for timely medical supply delivery and good patient care. By focusing on how AI use and environmental factors interact, this study provides important insights for healthcare providers looking to use technology to improve supply chain speed and responsiveness. Overall, this research adds to the ongoing discussion about digital change in supply chains, stressing the importance for SMEs to embrace AI technologies to succeed in a more uncertain business world.

Exploring the impact of building an agile automotive supply chain ecosystem on business performance: a social media perspective

PurposeThis study explores how establishing an agile supply chain ecosystem (ASCE) during the COVID-19 pandemic impacts three listed auto firms’ financial and customer performance in China. Drawing on the theory of supply chain resilience, responsiveness and restoration (3R capabilities), we collect, mine and analyze unstructured social media data from Dongfeng Motor Corporation (DFM), BYD Company Limited (BYD) and SAIC Motor Corporation Limited (SAIC), all of which have production plants in Wuhan.Design/methodology/approachData mining was conducted on 3,528 comments involving DFM, BYD and SAIC from 190 uploaders in the stages of “Early COVID-19 Period (January 23-May 31, 2020)” and “Enhanced Preparedness and Vaccine Launch Period (September 8, 2020–January 15, 2021)”. Our conceptual model of an ASCE was tested by adopting structural equation modelling and verified by the DFM case study.FindingsThe study finds that the 3R capabilities of the supply chain have a positive effect on establishing an automotive agile supply chain ecosystem. Establishing the automotive agile supply chain ecosystem has promoted corporate financial performance and customer performance, but the mechanism of action presents a delayed feature.Originality/valueThis study refines the definitions and application of the 3Rs concerning an ASCE in the automotive industry. Through text mining technology and statistical analysis methods, we uncover and discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the performance of three auto companies in China and examine how ASCE establishment plays a role. Constructing an ASCE provides a theoretical basis and realistic approach for the long-term and healthy development of the automotive supply chain.

A Study on Opportunities and Challenges for Supply Chain Management Through Digital Transformation

The present study aims to know the opportunities and challenges for supply chain management through digital transformation. The digital transformation of supply chain management (SCM) has emerged as a critical enabler of operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in the global marketplace. The research examines how these technologies improve visibility, enhance decision-making, streamline processes, and foster agility in supply chains. The study aims to include 150 participants for surveys and 10 industry experts for interviews, ensuring adequate representation across sectors and regions. Statistical analysis is performed using tools like SPSS or Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and ANOVA, t-test are used to analyze survey data.Through a mixed-methods approach, involving both qualitative case studies and quantitative surveys, this study investigates the experiences of organizations implementing digital solutions in supply chain management. The findings reveal that while digital transformation can lead to substantial improvements in supply chain efficiency and responsiveness, its successful implementation requires careful planning, strategic investment, and overcoming resistance to change. The thesis offers practical recommendations for organizations to mitigate these challenges, such as phased implementation, employee training programs, and strong cybersecurity measures. Additionally, it suggests that policymakers play a crucial role in supporting digital transformation through incentives, regulations, and fostering public-private partnerships. In conclusion, digital transformation presents both immense opportunities and considerable challenges for supply chain management. With the right strategies and investment, organizations can leverage digital technologies to create more resilient, sustainable, and competitive supply chains in the rapidly evolving global business landscape.

The influence of organisational culture on supply chain readiness and responsiveness

ABSTRACT This study investigates the influence of organisational culture (OC) on supply chain (SC) readiness and SC responsiveness following the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as the moderation of disruption severity on those relationships. A survey was conducted in 2021 on French organisations, yielding 312 valid answers. Partial least squares structural equation modelling approach and multi-group analysis (MGA) are employed for the analysis. The results highlight the positive and significant impact of OC on both of SC readiness and SC responsiveness. Specifically, clan and market cultures affect SC readiness, whereas SC responsiveness is influenced by hierarchy as well as clan and market cultures. The moderating role of disruption severity was not found to be significant. However, the MGA revealed that organisations under low severity disruption had a bigger effect of OC on their SC responsiveness. This study is one of the few studies that examines the impact of OC on SC readiness and responsiveness in the context of unprecedented level of disruption.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Improving the Efficiency of the Company's Supply Chain

The development of technology, especially in the era of Industry 4.0, has significantly impacted various sectors, including supply chain management. Artificial Intelligence (AI), one of the leading technologies in Industry 4.0, has excellent potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the supply chain. This study aims to identify the relationship between AI and the concept of supply chain management and analyze the practice of using AI to improve supply chain efficiency at PT. Pelita Media Nusantara. Using a descriptive-analytical method, this study examines various relevant literature and data. The results of the study indicate that the application of AI at PT. Pelita Media Nusantara has increased the supply chain's visibility, accuracy, and responsiveness. Implementing big data analytics, IoT sensors, and AI-based predictive systems allows companies to optimize procurement, production, and distribution processes. This case study also reveals that complex technology integration and the need for skilled human resources are the main challenges in implementing AI. This study provides important insights for academics and practitioners in developing more effective and efficient AI-based supply chain management strategies.

Opportunities for the use of artificial intelligence in supply chain management

Aim. To evaluate the potential of generative artificial intelligence technology in the context of supply chain management.Objectives. To analyze how artificial intelligence is changing traditional management practices and structures in supply chain management; to identify fundamental shifts brought about by AI, including automation, data-driven decision making, and human empowerment; to examine current statistics on the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in management processes and conclude the potential, promise of this technology in the logistics industry; to provide strategic insight and practicalMethods. The research combines qualitative and quantitative methods to provide a deeper understanding of the problems considered. Based on these methods, an array of relevant statistical data and expert opinions in the field of generative artificial intelligence has been studied.Results. In today’s business environment, supply chains face a number of challenges: globalization, market volatility, changing customer expectations, and force majeure (natural disasters, pandemics, or wars). To meet these challenges and strengthen their market position, companies are increasingly turning to new technologies and innovations. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the approach to supply chain management, increasing transparency, efficiency and responsiveness. All emerging technologies, from artificial intelligence and blockchain to the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics, potentially offer opportunities to streamline operations, improve decision-making, and enhance supply chain collaboration.Conclusions. In this article, the authors have shown how artificial intelligence is changing traditional governance structures in supply chain management. Current statistical data on the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in management processes are analyzed, and a conclusion is made about the potential and prospects of this technology in the logistics sphere. Strategic understanding is formed and practical recommendations for organizations seeking to implement new tools of generative artificial intelligence are given.

Enhancing Supply Chain Management Through Artificial Intelligence: A Case Study of JD Logistics

With the intensification of global economic competition, enterprises face the challenge of improving the supply chain management efficiency, and AI technology, as an emerging field in computer science, can provide effective solutions. As a leading e-commerce logistics service provider in China, JD Logistics has accumulated a wealth of logistics technology capabilities and digital transformation experience within and outside the JD Group. Using JD Logistics as a case study, this paper discusses the application of AI technology in supply chain management and its impact on enterprise responsiveness and operational efficiency. AI technology has significantly improved the supply chain operational efficiency and responsiveness of JD Logistics by applying intelligent supply chain planning, predictive analysis and intelligent decision-making. The study systematically summarizes the key role of AI technology in optimizing supply chain management through a literature review and specific case studies, providing an important reference and practical experience for enterprises to achieve digital transformation.

Coping with drug shortages: A study of government-enterprise option cooperation stockpiling strategies for drugs in shortage considering API surrogate stockpiling subsidies.

Drug shortage is a global problem, and the development of government-enterprise cooperative stockpiles of drugs in shortage, combining physical and production capacity, has become one of the most important means of coping with drug shortages. However, existing studies have tended to overlook the fact that shortages of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) have become an important constraint on production capacity stockpiling and that the lack of incentives and provisions for coordination of benefits have led to a double marginal effect of joint stockpiling by government and enterprises of drugs in shortage. Accordingly, this study introduced the option contract to the drug supply system composed of government and pharmaceutical enterprises and used the subsidy of API storage in lieu as an important initiative to incentivize the reserve of APIs, to construct a model of shortage drug reserve under the government's leadership. This study aims to improve the effect of government-enterprise joint stockpiling of drugs in shortage, which is of great theoretical and practical significance. According to the classification of production license types of pharmaceutical enterprises, this study established a three-level supply chain decentralized decision-making model consisting of the government, formulation enterprises, and API enterprises, and a two-level supply chain centralized decision-making model consisting of the government and API Formulation (API-F) integrated enterprises, respectively. By solving the inverse order derivation, the government-enterprise option cooperation conditions and optimal decision-making strategy were derived. The study results showed that: (i) The addition of enterprise API stockpiling mode can help the government conventional reserves, and enterprise production capacity reserves, broaden the way of drug reserves, and improve the effect of government-enterprise option cooperation; (ii) when the probability of drug shortages is high, the government should prefer the cooperation of API-F integrated enterprises, which is conducive to reducing intermediate links and government costs and improving the supply responsiveness to shortages of medicines; (iii) Setting appropriate government subsidies for API storage can incentivize enterprises to stockpile APIs and improve drug production capacity and physical supply response capability. This study took the problem of socialized stockpiling of drugs in shortage as an entry point and explored the problems and solution strategies in the government-enterprise cooperative stockpiling of drugs in shortage, which not only made some theoretical contributions to the application of options contract in the government-enterprise cooperative stockpiling of drugs in shortage but also provided new ideas and theoretical basis for the improvement of the stockpiling work of drugs in shortage.

Role of supply chain management in improving competitive advantage of Indonesian small and medium enterprises

Global competition has forced companies, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to improve their competitive advantage. Supply chain management practices are the ways to improve the competitive advantage, particularly in the global competition context. However, there is still doubt SMEs can compete globally, considering they face limited resources, skilled workforce, and business networks. Therefore, this study aims to examine the influence of supply chain management practices, covering cross-functional integration, partnership, responsiveness, and resilience. Moreover, this study has examined which practices dominate in improving competitive advantage. The quantitative study involved 445 SMEs located in East Java, Indonesia. The respondents are supervisors or higher levels and work in departments related to supply chain management, as they can provide the relevant information and possess complete knowledge of management practices. The data were collected via a questionnaire designed with a five-point Likert scale. The responses were analyzed using SmartPLS software 4.0. The results show that cross-function integration improves supply chain partnership, responsiveness, and resilience (β = 0.705, 0.382, 0.324; t-value = 25.177, 6.697, 5.783). Supply chain partnerships affect supply chain responsiveness, resilience, and competitive advantage (β = 0.327, 0.257, 0.249; t-value = 5.933, 4.536, 5.651). Moreover, supply chain responsiveness improves supply chain resilience and competitive advantage (β = 0.285, 0.106; t-value = 5.690, 2.099). Supply chain resilience improves competitive advantage (β = 0.435 and t-value = 8.987). SMEs can enhance their competitive advantage by integrating their internal cross-functional integration and adopting supply chain partnership, responsiveness, and resilience. Acknowledgments The authors would like to thank DIKTI 2023 and Research and Community Outreach Petra Christian University for providing the grant to fund this research.

Role of supply chain partnership, cross-functional integration, responsiveness and resilience on competitive advantages: empirical evidence from Palestine

PurposeThe external business environment of the organization is always changing at a rapid pace. For a firm to adapt to changing client requirements, it must implement the right business procedures and strategies. To improve competitive advantage, this study investigates the roles that supply chain partnerships, cross-functional integration, responsiveness and resilience play in achieving competitive advantages in Palestine.Design/methodology/approachIndustrial institutions in Palestine constitute the study population. Data are collected by distributing surveys via Google Forms linked to manufacturers in industries such as the Leather and shoe Industry, metal industries, chemical industries, construction industries, textile industries, stone and marble industries, pharmaceutical industry, veterinary industry, food industry, plastic industry, paper industry, major advantages and disadvantages. The SEM-PLS approach is used to analyze the data.FindingsThe findings demonstrate that supply chain responsiveness, resilience and cooperation are all improved by cross-functional integration in inventory data integration and immediate operation. Supply chain partnerships improve the supply chain’s responsiveness, resilience and competitive advantage by involving partners in work teams and exchanging best practices. The enhancement of supply chain resilience and competitive advantage is influenced by the company’s capacity to act promptly in response to variations in demands.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper faces some limitations and it can be drawn as follows: To enhance supply chain risk management, the study continues to concentrate on manufacturing organizations that have internal integration. It also emphasizes the necessity of supply chain integration, which establishes direct connections with outside partners.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study suggest some policy implications, as follows: To provide the manufacturing sector with a competitive edge, operations supervisors must be able to track and assess processes to ensure they are meeting demand. Firms that possess the ability to adjust to novel procedures or advancements in technology gain a competitive edge by guaranteeing consistent and high-quality delivery of products.Originality/valueBy implementing IT integration, this study theoretically and practically advances the understanding of the resource-based view of competitive advantages. This study focuses on providing insights into the nature of the relationship between supply chain partnership, cross-functional integration, responsiveness and flexibility and competitive advantages in the manufacturing sector in the Palestinian market.

An Investigative Study to Examine Impact of Digitalisation on Manufacturing Supply Chains

This study delves into how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the Malaysian glove industry's supply chain and triggered the adoption of digitalization to enhance supply chain performance (SCP). Through surveys and interviews, it was discovered that the pandemic negatively affected business performance but prompted increased digitalization adoption. Commonly utilized digital solutions include Big Data Analytics (BDA), Internet of Things (IoT), and Cloud Computing (CC), while less commonly adopted solutions include Augmented Reality (AR) and Additive Manufacturing (AM). The research underscores a positive link between digitalization and SCP, stressing the significance of digital capabilities in sustaining supply chain resilience and responsiveness. However, challenges such as cultural shifts in work practices and investment apprehensions impede digitalization endeavors. The study provides insights for industry practitioners on harnessing digitalization to alleviate supply chain disruptions and offers recommendations for effective digitalization strategies.

Towards circular economy: A IoT enabled framework for circular supply chain integration

Nowadays, the Internet of Things (IoT) has evolved beyond mere buzzword status, emerging as a pivotal force that can confer a competitive advantage in the market. By facilitating seamless communication between objects and the internet, IoT catalyzes unprecedented connectivity between machines and objects. An inherent advantage lies in its capacity to facilitate real-time information sharing, enabling efficient management of vital aspects within the realm of supply chain management, including inventory, products, and orders. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of IoT on supply chain performance, with a specific focus on the mediating role of interconnected systems in the dynamics of supply and demand, and the performance of supply chain firms within a sustainable circular economy context. A survey involving 268 manufacturers forms the basis of quantitative data analysis. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the relationships between latent and construct factors. The results highlight the significant influence of IoT capabilities on both supply chain performance and the integration of internet-enabled supply and demand processes. Concurrently, the study reveals a reciprocal positive effect, as supply and demand integration within internet-enabled supply chains contributes to enhanced supply chain performance. Moreover, the integration of internet-enabled supply and demand processes emerges as a crucial mediator, amplifying the relationship between IoT capabilities and supply chain performance. This study provides valuable insights for managers, researchers, and policymakers, fostering a deeper understanding of the vital role that IoT plays in cultivating and enhancing superior supply chain management practices and overall performance. The study highlights the significant benefits of IoT in enhancing supply chain performance through improved real-time tracking, inventory management, and resource optimization. It also emphasizes the crucial role of integrating internet-enabled supply and demand processes as a mediator, boosting overall supply chain efficiency and responsiveness.

The role of technology in supply chain risk management: Innovations and challenges in logistics

The review delves into the pivotal role of technology in revolutionizing supply chain risk management practices within the logistics sector. The paper explores the myriad of risks faced by modern supply chains, ranging from natural disasters and geopolitical tensions to cyber threats and disruptions in global trade patterns. It investigates how technological innovations such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics are reshaping traditional risk management approaches by providing real-time visibility, data-driven insights, and proactive mitigation strategies. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study examines the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing supply chain resilience, agility, and responsiveness to unforeseen disruptions. It highlights the benefits of leveraging blockchain technology for secure and transparent supply chain transactions, IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of goods in transit, AI algorithms for predictive risk modeling, and predictive analytics for identifying and mitigating potential disruptions before they escalate. Furthermore, the paper delves into the challenges and complexities associated with adopting and integrating these technologies into existing supply chain processes, including interoperability issues, data privacy concerns, and the need for specialized expertise. By providing practical insights, case studies, and best practices, the study aims to empower logistics professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to harness the full potential of technology-driven solutions in managing supply chain risks effectively and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly uncertain and volatile global environment.

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN SUPPLY CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT: INNOVATIONS AND CHALLENGES IN LOGISTICS

The review delves into the pivotal role of technology in revolutionizing supply chain risk management practices within the logistics sector. The paper explores the myriad of risks faced by modern supply chains, ranging from natural disasters and geopolitical tensions to cyber threats and disruptions in global trade patterns. It investigates how technological innovations such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics are reshaping traditional risk management approaches by providing real-time visibility, data-driven insights, and proactive mitigation strategies. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study examines the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing supply chain resilience, agility, and responsiveness to unforeseen disruptions. It highlights the benefits of leveraging blockchain technology for secure and transparent supply chain transactions, IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of goods in transit, AI algorithms for predictive risk modeling, and predictive analytics for identifying and mitigating potential disruptions before they escalate. Furthermore, the paper delves into the challenges and complexities associated with adopting and integrating these technologies into existing supply chain processes, including interoperability issues, data privacy concerns, and the need for specialized expertise. By providing practical insights, case studies, and best practices, the study aims to empower logistics professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to harness the full potential of technology-driven solutions in managing supply chain risks effectively and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly uncertain and volatile global environment.
 Keywords: Technology, Supply Chain, Risk Management, Innovations, Challenges, Logistics.

THE ROLE OF PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS IN OPTIMIZING SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE: A REVIEW OF TECHNIQUES AND CASE STUDIES

This study investigates the transformative impact of predictive analytics on enhancing supply chain resilience (SCR). Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research aims to explore the integration, challenges, and strategic implications of predictive analytics within the supply chain ecosystem. Focusing on literature from 2014 to 2023, the study synthesizes insights from peer-reviewed articles and conference papers, adhering to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure relevance and recency. The findings reveal that predictive analytics significantly contributes to supply chain agility, flexibility, and responsiveness, thereby bolstering SCR against disruptions. Key challenges identified include data privacy concerns, the need for skilled personnel, and the integration of predictive analytics into existing supply chain frameworks. Despite these challenges, the future outlook for predictive analytics in SCM is promising, with potential for unprecedented efficiency, sustainability, and competitive advantage. Strategic recommendations for practitioners emphasize the importance of developing predictive analytics capabilities, prioritizing data governance, and continuous staff training. For policymakers, the study suggests the need for standards and regulations that encourage innovation while ensuring the ethical use of predictive analytics. Finally, predictive analytics is pivotal in revolutionizing SCM, offering pathways for innovation, efficiency, and enhanced resilience. Future research should focus on the integration of emerging technologies, ethical data use frameworks, and overcoming adoption barriers, particularly in SMEs and developing economies. This study underscores the critical role of predictive analytics in the future of SCM, driving forward the agenda for research and practice in this evolving field.
 Keywords: Predictive Analytics, Supply Chain Resilience, Systematic Literature Review, Strategic Implications.

OPTIMIZING FMCG SUPPLY CHAIN DYNAMICS: A NOVEL FRAMEWORK FOR INTEGRATING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

This paper proposes a groundbreaking theoretical model specifically designed for the FMCG sector, focusing on optimizing supply chain dynamics to balance operational efficiency with customer satisfaction. Drawing on hands-on strategies and problem-solving abilities, the framework aims to offer practical solutions for common challenges faced by FMCG operations managers, such as inventory management, demand forecasting, and efficient resource allocation. The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry is characterized by intense competition, short product life cycles, and rapidly changing consumer preferences. In this challenging environment, optimizing supply chain dynamics is crucial for FMCG companies to achieve operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction. This concept paper presents a novel framework for integrating operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in FMCG supply chains, aiming to provide insights and strategies for FMCG companies to improve their supply chain performance. The framework emphasizes the importance of aligning supply chain strategies with customer needs and preferences. By focusing on key areas such as inventory management, distribution network efficiency, and technology integration, FMCG companies can improve their supply chain agility and responsiveness. Additionally, the framework highlights the importance of leveraging data analytics and technology to enhance supply chain visibility and decision-making. Implementing the framework requires collaboration among stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. By working together to optimize supply chain processes and enhance customer service, FMCG companies can gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Overall, the framework offers a comprehensive approach to optimizing FMCG supply chain dynamics, with the ultimate goal of improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
 Keywords: FMCG, Supply Chain, Customers, Framework.

Supply responsiveness of potatoes under risk in Jambi Province

The supply responsiveness of potatoes under risk in Jambi province is evaluated by applying an analysis of the lagged acreage function. The characteristics of crop production can explain sustainable decision-making allocations between realized inputs and outputs, taking time lags into account. The objective of the study is to analyze the supply responsiveness of potatoes under risk. Firstly, a production function in lag is estimated from empirically expected variables. Evaluating parameters found that risky variables explained the crucial role of farmers' strategies in decision-making. The findings explain that potato farmers appear to be risk-averse. Hence, the point of government policies has to take a look at risk management, and also the dynamic point of view. In the end, to test the effectual or not of government policy such as the potato farming program, risky variables are going to explain the effect and also impact the latter result. For example, minimizing the effect of the risk variable will increase the acreage, which implies a shift in the supply curve.

Relationship between organization supply chain capabilities and organization responsiveness

The link between an organization's supply chain's capacities and responsiveness has been identified as one of the main issues in ensuring business performance and achieving competitive advantage. Indeed, to achieve efficient responses to customers' needs, working across organizational boundaries is essential. This study shows positive relationships between an organization's supply chain capabilities and organizational responsiveness. This study identified two key issues: (1) the connection between supply chain capabilities and organizational responsiveness and (2) the impact of supply chain capabilities on organization responsiveness. In a taxonomy, various scenarios of the relationship between supply chain capabilities and organization responsiveness were developed, and different studies were used to demonstrate the experience of intra and inter-organizational activities in economic growth. The findings of numerous studies show in detail that an organization's supply chain capabilities are essential for improving organizational responsiveness and competitiveness. Supply chain capabilities not only directly enhance operational efficiency but also help with collaborative practices that help strengthen internal skills in turn.

SUPPLY CHAIN INTEGRATION IN MANUFACTURING: A COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF USA AND AFRICAN INDUSTRIES

Supply chain integration is a critical aspect of modern manufacturing, playing a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving overall performance. This paper provides a comparative review of supply chain integration in manufacturing between the United States (USA) and African industries. The study aims to shed light on the similarities, differences, and potential areas for improvement in both regions. In the USA, manufacturing industries have long embraced advanced technologies and adopted sophisticated supply chain management practices. The integration of information systems, automation, and real-time data analytics has enabled seamless coordination among various supply chain elements, from raw material procurement to final product delivery. Collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors has been a hallmark of the American supply chain, facilitating quick response to market changes and reducing lead times. Contrastingly, African industries face unique challenges in achieving similar levels of supply chain integration. Factors such as infrastructure limitations, regulatory hurdles, and varying levels of technological adoption contribute to a more fragmented supply chain landscape. However, recent years have witnessed a growing awareness of the importance of supply chain integration in enhancing competitiveness, prompting initiatives and investments to overcome these challenges. Despite these disparities, both regions share common goals of improving supply chain visibility, responsiveness, and resilience. The study explores successful strategies implemented by the USA and identifies potential lessons that can be applied in the African context. For instance, best practices in the utilization of digital technologies, collaborative platforms, and lean manufacturing principles are examined to provide actionable insights for enhancing supply chain integration in African industries. This comparative review highlights the critical role of supply chain integration in manufacturing and draws attention to the distinct challenges and opportunities faced by the USA and African industries. By understanding the best practices and lessons learned from each region, stakeholders can develop targeted interventions to enhance supply chain integration, fostering sustainable growth and competitiveness in both contexts.
 Keywords: Supply Chain, Manufacturing, USA, Africa, Review.

Efficient Humanitarian Logistics: Multi-Commodity Location–Inventory Model Incorporating Demand Probability and Consumption Coefficients

Background: A logistics network plan could be a major key issue due to its effect on supply chain effectiveness and responsiveness. This study aims to investigate the inventory location in the humanitarian logistics response stage using a three-level logistics network to integrate location–allocation problems such as warehouse location and shelter allocation to each facility, and then determine the inventory level in each warehouse. Methods: In this research, the center and its distribution, as well as the reduction in service-level costs due to inventory deficit, have been considered to increase the level of shelter services. In order to investigate the network, in this study, bi-objective mixed-integer linear programming (BOMILP) is presented. Results: The first objective is to reduce location costs and inventory costs that take into account probable demand, consumption factors, and transportation costs, and the second objective is to raise the level of services offered to victims in the model. The software programs GAMS win32, 25.1.2 and MATLAB have been utilized with numerical examples in various dimensions. Conclusions: To maximize the efficiency and quality of the service, first, the model was numerically solved, and then the location where the most commodities could be transported at the lowest possible cost was identified.