Mathematics Commons^™

Reliability Modeling In Spatially Distributed Logistics System, Ni Wang, Jye-Chyi Lu, Paul H. Kvam

Department of Math & Statistics Faculty Publications

This article proposes methods for modeling service reliability in a supply chain. The logistics system in a supply chain typically consists of thousands of retail stores along with multiple distribution centers (DC). Products are transported between DC & stores through multiple routes. The service reliability depends on DC location layouts, distances from DC to stores, time requirements for product replenishing at stores, DC's capability for supporting store demands, and the connectivity of transportation routes. Contingent events such as labor disputes, bad weather, road conditions, traffic situations, and even terrorist threats can have great impacts on a system's reliability. Given the …