A multi-layer demand-responsive logistics control methodology for alleviating the bullwhip effect of supply chains

This paper presents a multi-layer demand-responsive logistics control strategy for alleviating, effectively and efficiently, the bullwhip effect of a supply chain. Utilizing stochastic optimal control methodology, the proposed method estimates the time-varying demand-oriented logistics system states, which originate directly and indirectly downstream to the targeted member of a supply chain, and associate these estimated demands with estimates of different time-varying weights under the goal of systematically optimizing the logistical performance of chain members. In addition, an experimental design is conducted where the proposed method is evaluated with the two specified criteria. Numerical results indicate that the proposed method permits alleviating, to a great extent, the bullwhip effect in comparison with the existing logistics management strategies. Furthermore, the methodology presented in this study is expected to help address issues regarding the uncertainty and complexity of the distortion of demand-related information existing broadly among supply chain members for an efficient supply chain coordination. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.