Volume 1 Issue 1
Authors: Hamed Fazlollahtabar
Abstract: This paper concerns analyzing the interaction of supply chain (SC) and the internet specially World Wide Web. Combining these two fields is a focal point of concern for contemporary decision makers and researchers. They have found that the internet can enhance SC by making real time information available and enabling collaboration amongst trading partners. Here, we aim to propose a management information system to integrate the segmented factors of a supply network. We apply intelligent agents as decision supports in various layers of our supply network.
Keywords: Electronic Supply Chain (E-SCM); Multilayer; Management Information System (MIS); Intelligent Agents
Authors: Alireza Pournaghi; Seyed Ebrahim Vahdat
Abstract: Ecological sustainability and balance are the elements of sustainable development. In this paper, using fuzzy logic, a model is presented to monitor region wise industrial pollutants in pyrometallurgy industries. The model has been used in a case study that will determine which industry, in which region, producing which and how much pollutants, is ecologically compatible. To assess the ecological compatibility, first, the sets of industries, regions, pollutants and ecology compatibility were defined. Then, to calculate the membership degree of the members of the ecology compatibility set, the membership function of ecology compatibility was defined. By ranking different industries in various regions, producing different pollutants, as continuous figures, the ecological compatibility of these industries was accurately compared. Given the degree of ecological compatibility in a region, the type of pollutant and the related industry, identification of the lowest degree of ecological compatibility was the first priority of this case study. Results of the conducted case study, without considering the region coefficient, show that in December 2005, member C241, with an ecological degree of compatibility equivalent to 0.0559, had the most critical condition in producing carbon dioxide. However, in the same period in 2005, on considering the region coefficient, member C121, with an ecological degree of compatibility equivalent to 0.0655, showed the most critical condition as far the production of carbon dioxide was concerned.
Keywords: Fuzzy Logic; Region Coefficient; Membership Degree; Ecological Compatibility Degree
Authors: Sunishtha Dhaka; Davis Lazarus; Anupam Krishna
Abstract: The role of consumers in value creation across the value chain has increased and has become vital in recent times. Engaging consumers to co-create value has been largely appreciated but systematic applicability has not been found in businesses. The problem has been its fragmentary approach, with lack of synergy and vision to use it as a sustainable competitive advantage for the firm. The current research proposes a new holistic concept of ‘Co-Creation Channel’ to address these issues. The consumer insights on certain aspects of co-creation channel have been obtained through a series of ten ‘Focus Group Interviews’, carried across four major metros in India. The study has brought forward the key attributes of a successful co-creation channel and its derived benefits for the consumers. A phenomenon called ‘Engagement Paradox’ has also been identified as an outcome of this study. The study has important managerial implications. It provides direction for future research to develop the concept of ‘co-creation channel’. This paper becomes very valuable, as the concept of ‘co-creation channel’ has been found to be an ingredient in strategic value chain.
Keywords: Co-Creation; Co-Creation Channel; Customer Engagement; Engagement Platforms; Engagement Paradox; Value Chain
Authors: Shaghayegh Yousefi; Reza Dashti
Abstract: In this paper, applying graph theory, Benefit of Distribution Companies (BDC) and factors exerting an impact on it havebeen analyzed in order to optimize efficiency of distribution assets. Firstly BDC model is presented. Proposed model lends a comprehensive framework of indices which have an impact on BDC. Afterwards, it deals with techniques of improving the indices which have an impact on BDC so call effective factors. To determine the maximum BDC value, one should analyze the relations existing between indices and the amount of investments as well as the relations signifying their impact on BDC. Also, in view of the fact that the indices impact each other reciprocally, not to mention variability of factors associated with them, the analysis environment is going to be highly intricate hence necessitating application of a novel graph theory-based algorithm. In this algorithm, the target function of BDC is tried to be maximized through delineation of relations by the help of a graph, optimization of the weight of final graph node. Eventually, numerical studies are carried out on a real distribution system.
Keywords: Asset Efficiency; Distribution System; Optimization; Graph Algorithm
Authors: Hamed Fazlollahtabar; Behnam Pazhoohi; Hassan Mehrmanesh
Abstract: This paper concerns with clustering elements in a multi-layer and multi-product supply chain aiming purification of interactions using data mining. The flow of information in the supply chain is bi-direction, i.e., forward flow from supplier to customer and a backward one from customers. The goal is to improve the performance of the supply chain and preventing the bottlenecks. Thus, a data mining technique is applied for clustering elements configure the proposed supply chain using operational specifications related to each layer of the supply chain. The applicability of the proposed model is shown in a case study.
Keywords: Multi-Layer; Multi-Product; Supply Chain; Clustering; Performance Improvement