| SUPPLYCHAIN20001+ | This project is closed |
| Design, Evaluation and Exploitation of a Dynamic Supply Chain Decision Support System |
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Context The design of the supply chain from a components manufacturer to its customers has a significant impact on profitability and the quality of customer service. Best practices need to be identified in this area of the automotive supply chain. Aims The project has developed a re-engineering methodology for supply chains. This includes a systems engineering and simulation based dynamic Decision Support System based on industry standard software. It will allow the elimination of wasteful processes, the improvement of quality, cost and delivery to customers, and allow the development of leaner, more customer responsive business practices. Associated research has developed quicker and more consistent methods for supply chain analysis and engineering to a high international standard. Method The objectives have been met by - the production of an operational handbook for supply chains in the automotive industry - the development of computer based methods for mapping business processes in an automotive supply chain - the derivation of supply chain and business process models - the establishment of suitable holistic measures of performance for the supply chain - highlighting opportunities for re-engineering the supply chain for improved performance - testing of proposed re-engineering strategies through dynamic simulation The modelling for one supply chain type has led to recommendations for supply chain re-engineering including a 60% reduction in warehouse costs and a total reduction of 10% in distribution costs whilst maintaining customer service levels. This new methodology is ripe for further exploitation in optimising in-bound logistics. A best practice database has been established and the knowledge disseminated to each Lucas Varity (now TRW) business sector. Four mini guides have been produced for publication of the results so far. Dissemination is going ahead through Cardiff University. CSC is developing training programmes for use in its consultancy work. Benefits Lucas Varity (now TRW) has gained through improved efficiency of its supply chain particularly to the aftermarket. Demonstrations of improved capital, lead time, and operational performance have been generated, with a proven methodology for dissemination across businesses. The tools and techniques developed in the project will be exploited by CSC in its consultancy work in both the automotive and other sectors, and by Cardiff in its teaching and further research. Participants Lucas Varity plc (TRW), Computer Sciences Corporation University of Wales, Cardiff |
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