A multi-objective approach to simultaneous strategic and operational planning in supply chain design

In this research, an integrated multi-objective supply chain (SC) model is developed for use in simultaneous strategic and operational SC planning. Multi-objective decision analysis is adopted to allow use of a performance measurement system that includes cost, customer service levels (fill rates), and flexibility (volume or delivery). This measurement system provides more comprehensive measurement of supply chain system performance than do traditional, single-measure approaches. Moreover, this model incorporates production, delivery, and demand uncertainty, and provides a multi-objective performance vector for the entire SC network. The model developed here will aid in the: (1) design of efficient, effective, and flexible supply chain systems and (2) evaluation of competing SC networks. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.