Investigation into push-pull boundary in supply chains

• Main Author: Cheung, Siu Fung.
• Other Authors: Rajesh Piplani
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2010
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Industrial engineering::Supply chain
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/38868
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The objective of this report is to provide a summary on the investigation of Push-Pull boundary in the supply chain. This report illustrates on what the author had reviewed on the various types of systems which have different push-pull boundary point. The effects of the difference in the push-pull boundary placements in a system to a company are also investigated, with the aid of the Arena Simulation Software. Based on the model concepts done by the previous research student, five models are constructed for simulation on a case study. In reality, most, if not all, components along the supply chain are variables. Through the use of simulation, a numerical study on Dell Computers is performed. By placing Dell Computers into different push-pull boundary system, the effects on fill rate and inventory level and hence the cost have been observed. The case study result shows that Assembly postponement is the most suitable strategy to be employed for Dell. In conclusion, there is no plug and play strategy for any company but a simulation on how well a company can adapt into different push-pull boundary can give a good estimation to take reference on.