An integrated model for the design of agile supply chains
International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management
ISSN: 0960-0035
Article publication date: 1 May 2001
Abstract
The latter part of the twentieth century saw the lean production paradigm positively impact many market sectors ranging from automotive through to construction. In particular there is much evidence to suggest that level scheduling combined with the elimination of muda has successfully delivered a wide range of products to those markets where cost is the primary order winning criteria. However, there are many other markets where the order winner is availability. This has led to the emergence of the agile paradigm typified by “quick response” and similar initiatives. Nevertheless, “lean” and “agile” are not mutually exclusive paradigms and may be married to advantage in a number of different ways. This paper explores ways in which hybrid strategies can be developed to create cost‐effective supply chains and proposes an integrated manufacture/logistics model for enabling the essential infrastructure.
Keywords
Citation
Christopher, M. and Towill, D. (2001), "An integrated model for the design of agile supply chains", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 31 No. 4, pp. 235-246. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600030110394914
Publisher
:MCB UP Ltd
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited