Title: Use of an integrated methodology for analytical design of complex supply chains

Authors: Shahid Rashid; Richard Weston

Addresses: Department of Engineering Management, College of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (CEME), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Peshawar Road, Rawalpindi, 46000, Pakistan ' Cranfield University, Building 50, Cranfield Campus, Bedfordshire MK43 0AL, UK

Abstract: In this paper an integrated modelling-based methodology previously developed by the authors is case tested to support analysis and design of complex supply chains. The methodology includes established modelling techniques namely enterprise modelling (EM), causal loop diagramming (CLD) and simulation modelling (SM). The methodology is tested in a point of purchase (POP) equipments manufacturing enterprise namely Artform International, UK. Using EM, process-based model of complex supply chain of the Artform is developed which graphically represented information, material, finance and human view points of the supply chain and its related issues. An important issue namely unavailability of components at assembly cells is selected for analysis and its detailed causal loop model is developed to understand different dynamic factors effecting components supply. SM is used to quantify impacts of components unavailability at the assembly cells. Usefulness of the methodology is presented in respect of complex supply chain design of the Artform.

Keywords: complex supply chains; supply chain modelling; point of purchase; POP equipment; enterprise modelling; causal loop diagramming; CLD; simulation; process modelling; analytical design; supply chain complexity; supply chain management; SCM; supply chain design; case study; component unavailability; assembly cells.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2014.062464

International Journal of Business Performance and Supply Chain Modelling, 2014 Vol.6 No.2, pp.109 - 135

Received: 06 Mar 2013
Accepted: 29 Jun 2013
Published online: 12 Jul 2014 *

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