A variant of Kohonen’s algorithm for the self-organizing map (SOM) is used to solve a continuous location-routing problem that can be applied to identify potential sites for subsequent selection by a discrete finite set model. The paper aims to show how the algorithm may be customized to fit the problem structure in a way that allows aspects of location and routing to be integrated into the s…
Discusses the selection of distribution control techniques for a manufacturer of exhaust systems. A method for this selection process is proposed and worked out for the case study company. Argues that selecting one control technique for a complete company is not advisable. Distribution control should be differentiated to clusters of products that have a similar set of product, process and mar…
The purpose of this paper is to address the prerequisites for achieving coordinated action in reverse distribution systems. It is an underlying assumption in distribution, logistics and supply chain management that a higher level of coordination between the actors is superior to a lower, and a higher levels of coordination will in turn lead to increased performance. Coordination requires the ac…
The Hub and Spoke system (H&S), initially applied to the airline industry, is an innovative distribution approach which has proved to be successful especially in transportation systems dealing with several origins and destinations and with balanced good flows in both directions. This paper provides an overview of Hub and Spoke theory and proposes some possible improvements to this practice for …