Supply chain engineering and automation

Abstract

Integrated supply chains are networks of companies in alliance sharing the same destiny for mutual business advantage. In such networks, end-to-end material and information flows-from raw material production to retailer sales-are optimally and collaboratively managed to create value to the customers and other stakeholders. We first introduce the configuration and physics of integrated supply chain networks (ISNs) and identify the automation and Internet technologies that are critical for their effective and efficient operation. Next, we identify the strategic, tactical, and operational decisions in ISNs and the analytical techniques used in making these decisions. We conclude the paper with a discussion on some significant problems that require attention.