by Andrzej Szymonik (Author), Robert Stanislawski (Author)
Contemporary
supply chains operate under the pressure of customer requirements,
increasing price competition, sudden increases or decreases in demand,
unforeseen obstacles and new threats. The right way to improve the
functioning of the flow of material and accompanying information is not
only the continuous collection of data but also their collection,
analysis, inference and decision-making with the use of decision support
systems, expert systems and artificial intelligence. Such procedures
make it easier for logisticians not only to forecast processes but also
to predict (forecast) and identify potential problems and facilitate the
implementation of optimal modern solutions, paying attention to current
trends in the supply chain market.
An important
issue that affects the quality, efficiency and availability (continuity)
of the processes implemented within the supply chain is security. This
is an area that is not clearly defined. This book uses theoretical and
practical knowledge to define security in the supply chain as a state
that gives a sense of certainty and guarantees the flow of material
goods and services (in accordance with the 7w rule) as well as a smooth
flow of information for the planning and management of logistics
processes. Tools and instruments used to ensure the security of the
supply chain contribute to the protection and survival in times of
dangerous situations (threats) and adaptation to new conditions
(susceptibility to unplanned situations).
When
analyzing the needs and structure of the 21st century supply chains, in
the context of their security, it is impossible to ignore the problem of
their digitization, which enables the determination of optimal routes
and the anticipation of possible threats (crisis situations). Automatic
data exchange between various departments of the company along the upper
and lower part of the supply chain improves the functioning of the
warehouse management through, among others, automation, robotization and
pro-activity. It also contributes to efficient, good communication and
market globalization. Automation also brings new, extremely attractive
business models with regard to occupational safety, ergonomics and
environmental protection. To meet the needs of creating modern supply
chains, the book analyzes and presents current and future solutions that
affect security and the continuity of supply chains.
