A Model-Driven Decision Support System for the Master Planning of Ceramic Supply Chains with Non-uniformity of Finished Goods

Abstract

[EN] In this paper, a Model-Driven Decision Support System (DSS) for the Master Planning of ceramic Supply Chains characterized by producing units of the same finished good in a specific lot that differ in the aspect (quality), tone (colour) and/or gage (thickness) is proposed. The DSS is based on a mathematical programming model reflecting these non-uniformity characteristics. Through the different DSS functionalities, Decision Makers can generate different scenarios by means of changing any data. Optimal solution of each scenario can be evaluated for robustness under other scenarios. The Decision Maker can compare different solutions and finally choose the most satisfactory one for being implemented. To demonstrate the validity of the DSS, a realistic example is described through the generation of different scenarios based on the degree of finished goods uniformity in lots.