Analysis of inventory stock levels, supplier contracts, and supplier manufacturing capacity can provide insight to humanitarian organizations on their capacity and ability to respond to disastrous events. To organizations this information can aid in determining adequate inventory levels and negotiation of supplier contracted transportation times in order to maximize response...
This project explores how a shipper’s fuel surcharge (FSC) program affects its per-load transportation cost in the United States truckload (TL) transportation industry. We built a cost model using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis to quantify the effect of an FSC program on transportation cost. We controlled for well...
This project explores the financial impact of insourcing logistics for a major oilfield services company. Insourcing the transportation of their products to offshore oil rigs at sea – a function currently provided by their customers – will increase asset velocity of their most important tools, and allow them to service...
This project examines the current supply chain for a family of emergency surgical kits and uses mathematical models and sensitivity analysis to derive the best strategy to reduce the inventory level and the operating cost. Using a Strategic Inventory Placement method, we derive a complementary strategy to further enhance the...
A common inventory segmentation strategy for consumable service parts used in heavy industry was compared to a more sophisticated strategy by evaluating performance using a discrete-event simulation of warehouse operations and a companion Monte Carlo simulation of supply chain metrics. Unlike the simple strategy, the sophisticated strategy achieved performance goals...
This project assesses the inventory strategies for patented and off-patent products in a pharmaceutical supply chain with a focus on service level, forecast accuracy, lead times and supply reliability. The safety stock equation used in the current distribution model is examined and a revised model with a new safety stock...
This project evaluates the potential of using macroeconomic indicators to forecast consumer packaged goods demand for three emerging markets in Asia. Twenty-seven models were constructed using stepwise multiple linear regression analysis for the three countries and their product segments. Based on our findings, we determined which combination of macroeconomic indicators...
In this research, we examined the behavior of transportation costs during supply chain complexity events, in particular, new product launches in the distribution network of an FMCG manufacturer. We analyzed the cost-to-serve a customer in the network, recommended a method for picking the lowest transport cost factory and analyzed how...
FoodCo’s Small Format Stores (SFS) has a complex distribution network characterized by geographically dispersed stores, low sales velocity, a strong bullwhip effect and distributor premiums not proportionate to the costs. To address the problems in small format distribution, we recommend collaboration & information sharing across the supply chain, and consolidation...
This paper is a normative work aimed at identifying locations in Russia with high, medium and unclear potential for logistics cluster development. As a framework, this work uses four different models of logistics clusters: Major Seaport, Auxiliary Seaport, Major Inland and Auxiliary Inland logistics clusters. Conclusions are based on analysis...
Environmental sustainability has witnessed a remarkable growth in popularity over the past decades. Companies are investing significant amounts of money into green initiatives to reduce their environmental impact. This project identifies sustainability priorities of customers within the business-to-business (B2B) segment of RetailCo, a popular consumer packaged goods (CPG) company. By...
The supply chain for oilseeds is permeated with uncertainty. This work is based on a company that is expanding its business into Mato Grosso, a region where on top of all regular uncertainties, rapid growth and a number of developments may alter the landscape for business significantly. The company is...
This research explores supply chain network considerations for the e-commerce business of Ralph Lauren in Canada. The company’s strategic objective of elevating the brand is at the core of our research while recommending possible supply chain network considerations. This leads to recommendations on how to build a successful website for...
This project explores the benefits of retail data sharing in a high-velocity fresh produce supply chain. Produce shrinkage due to spoilage is a major source of waste in the fresh produce retail industry. Our primary objective was to identify the impact data sharing could have on the issue. We found...
Using the case of recycling in Bandung, Indonesia, this research aims to identify effective ways to use public policy to evaluate and enhance informal supply chains. I examine the current dynamics of the recycling middlemen industry and propose a framework for evaluating informal supply chains from a public policy perspective...
This project explores the strategies, methodologies, key metrics and tools for the optimal management of chassis in an extensive multi-depots network. Using an ocean shipping company, we analyze global fleet management as an integrated system embracing tracking capabilities, planning, processes and data analysis. We evaluate the opportunity for a company...
This project tested the applicability of the Perez-Franco, Singh, & Sheffi methodology to the aerospace industry. We conducted a qualitative mapping of the supply chain strategy for a specific satellite program in Lockheed Martin Space Systems. Outcomes from this case show the usefulness of the methodology to a wide number...
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) describes a system where electric vehicles (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) can connect to the electric grid to provide ancillary services, such as frequency regulation, to grid operators. This thesis evaluates the opportunities for V2G-enabled EVs and PHEVs to participate in the regulation services market and...
This project developed an analytical decision tool to quantify the impacts of employing multi-manufacturer collaborative distribution for promotion fulfillment in comparison to two traditional distribution approaches. In a case study, the model solution indicated that collaborative distribution is a viable strategy, and that optimizing distribution between both manufacturers’ networks creates...
This thesis provides a fundamental understanding of Polo Ralph Lauren’s current business operations and of current e-Commerce fulfillment models for luxury apparel brands in China. An assessment of gaps was also conducted between current fulfillment operations of PRL and those of other luxury brands and 3PLs operating in China, specifically...
This project analyzed a pilot reusable tote program implemented by a consumer products company that was suffering from an unsustainable attrition rate. We identified key factors behind tote attrition and designed a new program for implementation at MIT that will better address these factors, adding proof of concept to this...
In this research, we address the issue of developing a method for a private fleet manager to determine the appropriate number of railcars in a fleet. We focus on incorporating the variability of railcar cycle time into the fleet-sizing decision. In addition, we recommend a process that enables fleet managers...
The petrochemical manufacturing industry is considering capital asset utilization with increased scrutiny. The authors consider the problem of marine dock utilization in the context of this particular industry as well as parallel problems in other industries. They recommend a framework for simulating and benchmarking dock operations to allow for quantifiable...
Freight vehicle capacity, whether it be road, ocean or air transport, is highly under-utilized. This thesis describes the impact of ordering guidelines on the trucking efficiency of a large firm and how those guidelines and associated practices can be changed in order to gain better efficiency. Authors: Jaya Banik and...
