Modelling an End to End Supply Chain system Using Simulation

Within the current uncertain environment industries are predominantly faced with various challenges
resulting in greater need for skilled management and adequate technique as well as tools to manage
Supply Chains (SC) efficiently. Derived from this observation is the need to develop a generic/reusable
modelling framework that would allow firms to analyse their operational performance over time (Mackulak
and Lawrence 1998, Beamon and Chen 2001, Petrovic 2001, Lau et al. 2008, Khilwani et al. 2011, Cigollini et
al. 2014). However for this to be effectively managed the simulation modelling efforts should be directed
towards identifying the scope of the SC and the key processes performed between players.
Purpose: The research attempts to analyse trends in the field of supply chain modelling using simulation
and provide directions for future research by reviewing existing Operations Research/Operations
Management (OR/OM) literature. Structural and operational complexities as well as different business
processes within various industries are often limiting factors during modelling efforts. Successively, this
calls for the end to end (E2E) SC modelling framework where the generic processes, related policies and
techniques could be captured and supported by the powerful capabilities of simulation.
Research Approach: Following Mitroff’s (1974) scientific inquiry model and Sargent (2011) this research will
adopt simulation methodology and focus on systematic literature review in order to establish generic OR
processes and differentiate them from those which are specific to certain industries. The aim of the
research is provide a clear and informed overview of the existing literature in the area of supply chain
simulation. Therefore through a profound examination of the selected studies a conceptual model will be
design based on the selection of the most commonly used SC Processes and simulation techniques used
within those processes. The description of individual elements that make up SC processes (Hermann and
Pundoor 2006) will be defined using building blocks, which are also known as Process Categories.
Findings and Originality: This paper presents an E2E SC simulation conceptual model realised through
means of systematic literature review. Practitioners have adopted the term E2E SC while this is not
extensively featured within academic literature. The existing SC studies lack generality in regards to
capturing the entire SC within one methodological framework, which this study aims to address.
Research Impact: A systematic review of the supply chain and simulation literature takes an integrated and
holistic assessment of an E2E SC, from market-demand scenarios through order management and planning
processes, and on to manufacturing and physical distribution. Thus by providing significant advances in
understanding of the theory, methods used and applicability of supply chain simulation, this paper will
further develop a body of knowledge within this subject area.
Practical Impact: The paper will empower practitioners’ knowledge and understanding of the supply chain
processes characteristics that can be modelled using simulation. Moreover it will facilitate a selection of
specific data required for the simulation in accordance to the individual needs of the industry.