International Journal of Integrated Supply Management (3 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Evaluation of picker-to-parts order-picking technologies through field experiments: a comparison of performance, cost, and environmental impact  
  by Anastasios Gialos, Vasileios Zeimpekis 
  Abstract: Although the order-picking process significantly affects warehouse productivity and operating costs, only a few studies have evaluated how the performance of such systems may be influenced using specific order-picking technologies. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the performance of four order-picking technologies in terms of efficiency, operational/investment cost, and environmental impact. Employing a general mixed-level full factorial experimental design, system efficiency is examined through field-based experiments. Operational cost and carbon footprint are calculated by adopting the Activity-Based Costing methodology, and certain emission factors based on ISO14067:2018 standard. The results indicate that pick-by-light achieves the highest efficiency and lowest cost per order line, while pick-by-paper and pick-by-RF scanner exhibit substantially lower performance, and notable trade-offs emerge between cost and environmental impact across technologies. Furthermore, the results reveal that combining an efficient order-picking technology with an experienced workforce and well-designed orders can significantly enhance the performance of order-picking systems.
  Keywords: order-picking technologies; pick-by-paper; pick-by-RF scanner; pick-by-light; pick-by-vision; design of experiments; DOE; field experiments; ABC costing; carbon footprint; CF.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJISM.2026.10076361
   
  
• Autonomous vehicles as self-driving assembly items: rethinking internal logistics in automotive assembly  
  by Tom Kathmann, Daniel Reh, Julia C. Arlinghaus 
  Abstract: This paper investigates the use of autonomous vehicles (AVs) as self-driving assembly items to transform internal material handling and supply chain integration within automotive manufacturing. By enabling vehicles to autonomously navigate through their own assembly process, the concept offers a flexible and cost-efficient alternative to traditional conveyor systems. Based on a multiple case study of three battery electric vehicle (BEV) assembly systems, supported by expert workshops and interviews, we analyse the economic and structural impacts of this approach. Our findings show that infrastructure-supported AV systems can reduce conveyor-related capital expenditures by up to 25%. A total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis over 50 years confirms long-term viability. The study also provides planning guidelines for implementation, including layout restructuring and buffer design. This research contributes to integrated supply management by quantifying the financial and operational implications of AV-based internal logistics and offering practical insights for smart manufacturing transformation.
  Keywords: autonomous vehicles; AVs; automated guided vehicles; AGV; automotive assembly; self-driving; conveyor systems; internal logistics; production planning; supply chain integration; flexible assembly systems; automated valet parking in production.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJISM.2026.10076751
   
  
• Towards supply chain viability: mapping the trade-offs between efficiency, resilience and sustainability  
  by Marcel Jaun, Joerg H. Grimm, Tim Auer 
  Abstract: Global supply chains are reaching the limits of a decades-long profit-maximisation dogma. Rising geopolitical instability, climate pressure and social expectations are questioning this logic. To remain viable, companies must manage more complex trade-offs between efficiency (E), resilience (R) and sustainability (S). This study maps these trade-offs from the perspective of supply chain viability (SCV) and paradox theory. An exploratory research design with 31 semi-structured interviews identified 21 recurring trade-offs, categorised along the SCOR processes and grouped into four conflict types: E vs. R, E vs. S, R vs. S, and E vs. R vs. S. Efficiency was the dominant driver, often at the expense of resilience and sustainability. The study extends the SCV concept by proposing that these trade-offs form the basis for discussion about the long-term development of SCV and the identification of synergies. For practitioners, the trade-off map offers a tool for analysing recurring tensions.
  Keywords: supply chain viability; SCV; resilience; sustainability; efficiency; supply chain trade-offs; trade-off mapping.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJISM.2026.10076752