Algorithms and computer hardware have revolutionised the performance of logistics planning tools in many regions around the world. However, market conditions and business modalities may vary from region to region, so the outcome of any optimisation effort may vary too. To better understand what factors contribute to a good transport optimisation result, Inform analyses the performance of an intelligent software planning tool in two European countries. By Thomas Bergmans and Dirk Schlemper, Inform GmbH, Germany.
Ready-mix, cement, aggregates and asphalt producers around the world have started to use tools that are based on operations research (OR) to plan their supply chain. OR uses mathematical and other appropriate methods to solve complex issues. The combination of OR methods with high computer performance can significantly improve logistics processes and distribution costs.
