International Journal of Business Performance and Supply Chain Modelling (16 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• A PROPOSED HYBRID VUCA THEORY AND DECISION MAKING FOR LOGISTICS ENTERPRISES IN OMAN DUE TO UNCERTAINTY CONTEMPORARY FACTORS  
  by Noorul Shaiful Fitri Abdul Rahman, Abdelsalam Adam Hamid, Nur Hazwani Karim, Mohammad Khairuddin Othman, Abdelghani Benayoune, Muhammad Subhan Ishak 
  Abstract: The Covid-19 pandemic, the implementation of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, the recent fuel price crisis and the vision of the Sultanate of Oman Logistics Strategy 2040 are forcing the Omani logistics sector to determine its capability in handling these four issues simultaneously. This study proposes a decision-making model for small and medium logistics enterprises in Oman for analysing numerous potential business strategies by considering the uncertainty of contemporary factors. A hybrid of multiple-criteria decision-making methods, namely, the analytic hierarchy process, fuzzy link-based approach and evidential reasoning approach, were used in this study. It was found that the "Centralised Business Activities" business strategy is preferable and more essential to be implemented immediately, mainly due to the geographical market positioning reason. This novel study contributes to developing the decision model for the Logistics Enterprises in Oman as a new measurement when dealing with the uncertainty of external factors of the business environment.
  Keywords: Operations management; Logistics management; Decision making; Uncertainty supply chain; Small-medium enterprises; VUCA Theory.
  
  
• Modeling Cloud Computing adoption barriers for Indian SMEs' supply chain using TISM and MICMAC analysis  
  by Rohit Kumar, Manish Gupta 
  Abstract: The implementation of CC can have an impact on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises by changing the process of designing, producing, delivering, and discarding products. CC is advantageous to emerging countries, particularly India, and requires a comprehensive description for proper understanding and application in business. The aim of this paper is to identify the impediments to CC adoption from the perspective of Indian SMEs. The present research work is to identify the barriers to adopting CC in Indian SMEs using extensive literature and the response obtained from experts. The second main objective of this research is to develop an interpretive hierarchy of CC adoption barriers using TISM technique and categorise these identified barriers into different clusters using MICMAC analysis. This paper identifies four driving barriers named: 1) lack of government support; 2) low understanding of CC; 3) limitation of IT system; 4) lack of connectivity
  Keywords: digital technology; supply chain integration; supply chain relationship; inhibiting factor for ICT adoption; cloud computing adoption.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10048490
   
  
• Investigating the multi-objective optimization problem of supplier selection using the new COTOP hybrid method  
  by Elham Shadkam 
  Abstract: In recent years, selecting the best supplier in the supply chain problem has become a strategically important issue. The nature of this problem is usually complex and there are conflicting objectives. Selecting the best supplier will significantly reduce the cost of purchasing materials and the delivery time. It also increases the level of competitiveness of organizations. The purpose of this paper is to present a new approach to solve multi-objective optimization problems. The proposed method in this paper has been used to solve the evaluation and selection of the appropriate supplier. The proposed hybrid method is a combination of the cuckoo optimization algorithm (COA) and the TOPSIS method and is therefore called COTOP. The speed and accuracy of the results from the implementation of the proposed COTOP method on the supplier selection problem show the efficiency of the algorithm in solving multi-objective problems, and this method can well identify the Pareto frontier of the problem. Due to the use of the cuckoo optimization algorithm, the proposed COTOP method can be used in large-scale problems, and due to the use of the TOPSIS method, there is no concern in terms of the number of objective functions.
  Keywords: Supplier Selection; Supply Chain; TOPSIS; Cuckoo Optimization Algorithm; Hybrid Method.
  
  
• Scenario-based multi-objective optimization model based on supervised machine learning to configure a plastic closed-loop supply chain network  
  by Sahand Ashtab, Babak Mohamadpour Tosarkani 
  Abstract: In this study, combination of a machine learning technique and qualitative research methodology is utilized to inform the quantitative analysis of a multi-objective optimization model for plastic Closed Loop Supply Chain (CLSC) configuration. We apply logistic regression model to a real sample of data to validate our approach. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis is conducted to consider the effects of unpredictable changes in demand and return. Our numerical results indicate that the combination of adding washing machines to recovery centres, and increased return of plastic products due of increased corporate responsibility in providing information on plastic type and educating consumers on the importance of plastic recycling have the potential to contribute to both economic and environmental pillars of sustainability by decreasing the design cost, i.e., by 3.93%, and carbon dioxide (i.e., CO2) emissions, i.e., by 14.24%. The implications of our study concerning social sustainability, policy makers, and municipalities are discussed.
  Keywords: Multi-objective optimization; Machine learning technique; Logistic regression; Corporate responsibility; Closed loop supply chain; Plastic.
  
  
• Multi-echelon supply chain inventory model for perishable items with fuzzy deterioration rate and imperfect production with two-warehouse under inflationary environment  
  by S.V. Singh Padiyar, Vandana , Neelanjana Rajput 
  Abstract: This paper considers three phase of supply chain model and focuses on the fuzziness of deterioration rate and developed a model for vendor, supplier and buyer. Many types of equipment are required to keep these perishable items safe and even if the equipment is present, it is more likely to spoil them. The reason why they have deterioration rate is always uncertain. Now fuzzy set theory plays the most important role to understand this kind of situation in real life. To keep it safe, it is very important to have a warehouse, and due to the presence of a warehouse, we can hold the items safely and due to which we can act quickly to reach the consumer. Therefore, the deterioration rate is taken as triangular fuzzy number, and defuzzify the total cost by using singed distance method (SDM). Here items with imperfect quality, during production are unavoidable therefore, the situation for storage problem is also assumed. Sometimes, the inventory requires many types of equipment and to fulfil this facility supplier requires rented warehouse. Therefore, supplier uses two warehouse to reduce the storage problem, one is for limited quantity, which is own warehouse (OW), whereas the other warehouse of imprecise capacity and treated as a rented warehouse (RW). Here, demand is exponential for vendor and supplier, and demand is stock- dependent for a buyer. Shortage is applicable only at the buyers end, which is partially backlogged. The objective of this study is to minimize the total cost for the chain, as well as through sensitivity it was found that if vendor increases the production rate over this time, then the total cost is coming down in both the crisp model and the fuzzy model. That is, this model proves to be very useful for industries if the production is excessive. We have illustrated our model by a numerical example and sensitivity analysis.
  Keywords: Multi-echelon supply chain; fuzzy deterioration rate; imperfect production; two warehouses; variable demand rate and inflation.
  
  
• Integrated Decision-making Tool for Raw Material Procurement, Inventory Management, and Production Planning in The Probabilistic Environment via Bi-Objective Stochastic Programming  
  by Sutrisno Sutrisno, Solikhin Solikhin, Purnawan Adi Wicaksono 
  Abstract: In this paper, a mathematical optimization model is proposed to solve problems in an integrated supply chain including the procurement of raw materials, inventory management, and production planning in a probabilistic environment concerning multiple raw materials, supplier alternatives, product types, and review time. The term "probabilistic environment" means that there are some unknown parameters treated as a random variable. The bi-objective stochastic programming is used to calculate the optimal decision for the lot of raw materials procured from each supplier and stored in the inventory, and the lot of products manufactured in the production unit. A numerical experiment illustrating the implementation of the provided model is also discussed in this research. The results showed that the given problem is well solved, and the optimal decision is achieved. This confirms that the provided model can be implemented by decision-makers as their decision-making tool.
  Keywords: Bi-objective stochastic programming; decision-making tool; inventory management; probabilistic environment; production planning; raw material procurement.
  
  
• PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT IN NON-PROFIT FOURTH PARTY REVERSE LOGISTICS: AN APPLICATION IN A FOUNDATION SPECIALIZED IN PACKAGING WASTE  
  by Halil Hilmi ÖZ, Bahar ÖZYÖRÜK 
  Abstract: In the existence of constraints of other modes of operations in reverse logistics (RL), Non-Profit Fourth Party Reverse Logistics (NP-4PRL) is a promising operation mode to effectively deal with inherent uncertainties and complexities of RL. However, there is hardly little research available about NP-4PRL, especially in performance measurement (PM), in literature. This paper aims to develop and validate a PM methodology and a measurement framework for non-profit organizations (NPOs) operating in 4PRL. To build a discussion background, the paper presents literature on 4PRL and measurement frameworks. Then, it develops a PM methodology and a measurement framework based on a hybrid model which utilizes Triple Bottom Line and Performance Prism measurement frameworks. The PM methodology and the measurement framework developed for NP-4PRL are validated through a survey which is executed with face-face interviews with experts from a foundation operating in packaging waste product category. Moreover, the total performance index calculation approach is shown to work correctly on a hypothetic example to measure business performance of NPOs operating in 4PRL.
  Keywords: fourth party reverse logistics; non-profit organizations; third party logistics; performance measurement; Triple Bottom Line; Performance Prism; supply chain management.
  
  
• The excellence heart 2.0: A holistic model for sustained and innovative business excellence tested in an HVAC company  
  by Soumaya Elyoussoufi, Mohamed Mazouzi, Anass Cherrafi, Jamal Elbaz 
  Abstract: Achieving organizational excellence is an issue that prompted both the scientific community and business managers. Several models are proposed. Unfortunately, they tend to divide the approach or suggest complicated frameworks not adaptable to different companies. Based on literature reviews, Amazon's story, and TRIZ papers in management, we develop a holistic and adaptable model that stimulates the company's creativity, agility, and sustainability. A case study in an HVAC company highlights the advantages of the model. The model will initiate a new approach to business excellence. Moreover, further research can be conducted to test the model through case studies in different businesses and fields.
  Keywords: Holistic; Innovative; Excellence; Business; TRIZ; Strategy.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10053601
   
  
• Green Logistics Service Potential to Enhance Competitive Advantage of Logistics Service Provider in Nakhon Ratchasima Province of Thailand  
  by Siriporn Loetyingyot 
  Abstract: The study aims to 1) investigate the causal relationship factors of green logistic service potential from logistics service providers in Nakhon Ratchasima Province and 2) provide green logistics service development guidelines to enhance competitive advantage. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used in this study. The instrument was questionnaires with 127 samples being collected. An in-depth interview was used with logistics executives in order to understand the service quality standard. The multiple regression analysis was employed in this study. The results indicated that 1) green logistic service potential affected competitive advantages. These potentialities were green transportation management, customer relationship management and communication technology ability. The causal factors were social responsibility awareness and the external pressure affected green logistics service potential. 2) the green logistics service development guideline showed that the government should establish an organization to be responsible for consulting green logistics service. All business sectors should collaboratively exchange and share their knowledge to improve green logistics services.
  Keywords: Green Logistics Service Potential; Social Responsibility Awareness; External Pressure; Competitive Advantage.
  
  
• Drivers and barriers of digital transformation  
  by Nikoletta Kaszás, Ildikó Ernszt, Bálint Jakab 
  Abstract: Industry 4.0 has become an unavoidable concept in recent years, many refer to it as the fourth industrial revolution. Although the topic is widely covered in the international literature, empirical studies show that many companies have not started to adopt these new technologies, yet. Thus, in our research we focused on factors supporting and hindering the digital transformation, and this topic was examined through the example of Hungarian enterprises. Based on the responses of the 776 surveyed organisations, we found that there is a moderately strong correlation between barriers and digital maturity, which stems primarily from a lack of knowledge of technology and a lack of trust in human resources.
  Keywords: digital transformation; Industry 4.0; drivers; barriers; Hungary.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10051519
   
  
• Sustainability Studies Applied to Reverse Logistics: An Overview of the Literature  
  by Fatma Ersoy Duran, Emel Yontar 
  Abstract: Considered within the scope of sustainability, reverse logistics, which includes the recycling process and waste management, is the process of dealing with the current flow from the end consumer to the supplier in the logistics processes in the opposite direction. The aim of this study, which deals with these two important concepts, is to provide a different perspective to the studies to be done in this field by considering the sustainable reverse logistics studies that have been made in the literature over time. In this direction, 52 articles based on sustainable reverse logistics are examined and analyzed. With this study, it is aimed to detail the reverse logistics activities, which is one of the areas of use, by drawing attention to the concept of sustainability, and to contribute to the increase of sustainable reverse logistics studies by drawing attention to the gains and gaps in the literature.
  Keywords: sustainable reverse logistics; sustainability; reverse logistics; logistics.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10051528
   
  
• Supply chain flows of the assets in normal, conventional, and Islamic banking financing scenarios: a new perspective  
  by Zubair Ahmed, Mohd Adib Ismail, Lokhman Hakim Osman, Zizah Che Senik 
  Abstract: Purpose The assets are significant parts of the supply chains. On the other hand, Islamic banking is called asset-backed due to Islamic finance concepts so the supply chain flows of the assets in normal, conventional and Islamic finance scenarios are different. However, studies are scarce in this regard. Therefore, the study's purpose is to elaborate on the supply chain flows of the assets in normal, conventional, and Islamic financing scenarios. Design/methodology/approach This is a conceptual paper that uses the library research method and participant observation background of the principal researcher. Findings This study found three propositions that show Islamic banks have a unique stake in the Supply Chain flows of their financed assets. They are not only stakeholders in the financial and informational supply chain flows, but they must be considered the stakeholders in the ownership supply chain flow. This point makes them different from conventional financers as well as different from the normal supply chain flows of the assets. Originality/value This study will support making a win-win situation for supply chain entities.
  Keywords: Supply Chain Flows; Financed Assets; Ownership Supply Chain Flow; Physical Supply Chain Flow; Financial Supply Chain Flow.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10052658
   
  
• Design, Storage Location Allocation, and Routing: A Comprehensive Comparison  
  by Mohammadnaser Ansari, Mohsen Nikfar, Jeffrey Smith 
  Abstract: With the current disturbance in the supply chain and sudden shift towards e-commerce with the onset and continued impact of COVID-19, warehousing and warehouse efficiency is once again in the spotlight. Analyzing the performance of various methods and approaches in designing, planning, and operating a warehouse has been a subject of interest for researchers. This paper investigates the effect of four main factors in warehouse operations on order-picking total fulfillment time. The number of cross-aisles, storage location assigning approaches, location ranking methods, and routing methods have been examined using a real order data sample. Later, their effect on the order picking time in a traditional parallel aisle warehouse has been investigated. The authors also performed a full-ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) and sensitivity analysis to find the best combination of design, Storage Location Assigning Problem (SLAP), and routing, for a set of order data.
  Keywords: Warehouse; Routing; Design; SLAP; Performance.
  
  
• Price transmission and integration between the Italian and Spanish seafood markets.  
  by Abdallah Djella, Luca Mulazzani, Andrea Forgione, Giulio Malorgio, Luca Camanzi 
  Abstract: The characteristics of seafood markets may be strongly affected by several aspects, firstly by the biological cycles and catch trends of every fish species and secondly by several institutional features; however, there are not empirical papers that clearly show how these factors can affect the market of different seafood products landed in the same geographical area. In this paper, we provide a progress in the knowledge of seafood markets evaluating how differences in catch patterns, wholesale organization, and trade needs may influence the transmission of prices along the supply chain, using Italian and Spanish markets as a case study. Five species (sardine, European anchovy, common cuttlefish, common octopus and clam) are analysed. Results support the assumption of market integration at international level between Italy and Spain in the case of small pelagics; for octopus, there is a transmission of price signals from the retail level to the first sale level, while for cuttlefish first sale prices seem to be independent and driven by local catches. These differences can be explained by the biological and institutional characteristics of these submarkets. The case of clam is controversial, since the analysis has not found any correlation among prices at national and international level. These results can be used by the weak agents (i.e., fishers) of the supply chains and by the public institutions to design better forms of horizontal (i.e., producer organizations) and vertical (i.e., interbranch organisations) coordination.
  Keywords: Price transmission; market integration; supply chain; VAR test; Causality test.
  
  
• Inventory Policies with Impact of Advertisement efforts and Static Rebate Versus Dynamic Rebate  
  by Nita Shah, Pratik Shah, Milan Patel 
  Abstract: In this paper, we have developed an inventory model for non-instantaneous deteriorating products. We have considered the use of preservation technology investments to reduce and control the deterioration rate. The retailer uses frequent advertisements to promote the product and to create awareness among target customers. Retailer implements advance booking strategy together with the production process. Product demand is influenced by product quality, selling price, and advertisement frequency in the phase when there is no deterioration. Once the deterioration of the product starts, the retailer offers a price rebate to clear stock, and hence the product demand gets affected by the rebate also in the deterioration phase. We proposed an iterative method to solve the mathematical problems and its applicability is validated through a numerical example. The study aims to check the impact of static/dynamic rebates and advertisements on sales revenue.
  Keywords: Advertisement; Advance booking; Preservation; Quality; Rebate; Selling price.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10053956
   
  
• Selection of ideal supplier in E-procurement for manufacturing industry using Intuitionistic Fuzzy AHP (IF-AHP)  
  by Deepika M 
  Abstract: Purchasing plays a momentous role in establishing relationships with a plethora of business partners in supply chain and is pivotal concerning overall firm operations and supply chain performance. Majority of firms militate against the cost-competitive world in reducing the overall component cost by scrutinizing cost-effective suppliers. E-procurement is one of the pre-eminent features in supply chain management (SCM) and has garnered considerable attention among manufacturing industries in the Middle East. Due to its distinct nature, a glut of novice criteria and sub-criteria has been augmented with the traditional classifications for selecting a consummate supplier. Initially, the selected criteria were analyzed and compared by deriving priority weights using AHP, FAHP and IF-AHP, respectively. Subsequently, we focused on utilizing IF-AHP for the first time in e-procurement for efficient supplier selection. Of particular note, this study assists the firm in optimising the evaluation of impeccable supplier selection in e-procurement based on key criteria.
  Keywords: e-procurement; supplier selection; multi-criteria decision making; MCDM; fuzzy analytic hierarchy process; FAHP; intuitionistic preference relation; IPR.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBPSCM.2023.10054718