Abstract
This repost discusses the use of Operations Research for providing decision-support in production networks. First, we discussdecision support systems (DSS) and present different appproaches to classify DSS. We then place optimization models in thatcontext.In order to further classify the decisions supported by Operatiosn Research in production networks, we then develop a simpleframework based on of the work by Anthony (1965) and Wu, Roundy, Storer & Martin-Vega (1999). The framework has ninecategories defined by a combination of decision hierarchy (strategic, tactical, and operational planning) and decision scope(supply chain, facility, and production unit). When reviewing the literature on different problem classes and placing it into ourframework, we find that decisions regarding supply chain are supported on all levels of the decision hierarchy, while facilityproblems are mainly considered at the strategic and tactical planning level. The production unit is mainly supported inoperational planning processes.We also discuss three elements, namely uncertainty, real-time information, and imperfect markets, that increase the complexityof the decision-making process. These elements have to various degrees been incorporated in optimization models, but supportfor production networks is not always available.
