Supply chains and traffic

The similarities between supply chains and traffic streams

TML was present at the "Vervoerslogistieke Werkdagen 2004" (Days on Transport Logistics) with a paper on the similarities between supply chains and traffic streams. Within this working paper, we studied the mechanisms and the driving forces of traffic and supply chains, the possibilities to model both systems and the way to steer and control both traffic and supply chains. First, we sketch the general background of supply chains and traffic streams. These systems are illustrated with a well-known phenomenon: a traffic jam and the bullwhip effect in a supply chain. These phenomena are further analyzed with special attention to similar properties. The authors are convinced that both fields have interesting elements for the other field. A bridge between supply chains and traffic streams will therefore lead to new and refreshing insights.

paper

200402_artikel.pdf (Dutch, presented at the Vervoerslogistieke Werkdagen 2004)

period

2004

researchers

Steven logghe, Bart Vannieuwenhuyse

contact

Kris Vanherle

+32 16 31.77.38