Sameer Kumar | University of St. Thomas, Minnesota (original) (raw)

Papers by Sameer Kumar

Information Knowledge Systems Management, 2012

The system dynamics (SD) modeling approach is used to study the U.S., Japan and EU auto industrie... more The system dynamics (SD) modeling approach is used to study the U.S., Japan and EU auto industries' closed loop supply chains. The objectives of this study are to examine the impact on these three supply chains of: government regulations; financial incentives for recycling, remanufacturing, and salvage; the export of used cars; market pricing for remanufactured, salvage and recycle materials on cash flows; and use of such materials for car manufacturers and routine car maintenance and repair considering similarities and differences. Disposal of cars that have reached end of life phase in the U.S., Japan and EU, as well as, the export of used cars by Japan to emerging economies are examined. Base scenario analysis using car consumption data and forecasts are explored. The SD model was also subjected to boundary conditions tests for structural validity. Dynamic analyses of different market scenarios for the U.S., Japan and EU auto industries' value chains are also conducted. The study shows the impact of government regulations, financial incentives and market pricing for remanufactured, salvage and recycle materials have a positive, but differing impact on cash flows and use of such raw materials for car manufacturers in these three market segments.

Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 2015

This paper studies how a global manufacturer with many subsidiaries can achieve enhanced business... more This paper studies how a global manufacturer with many subsidiaries can achieve enhanced business value for the organization by sharing information within its supply chain network. Specifically, the uncertainties in the demands from the downstream distribution center affect the inventory levels at the upstream distribution center under different inventory policies, considering the uncertain lead times and the given order fill rates. With a generic simulation model and real data, we evaluate the magnitude of savings in inventory under the new inventory policy where information can be shared among subsidiaries, compared to the status quo where subsidiaries run independently with no information sharing. The results show that average inventory level at the upstream DC under the new policy would be reduced by approximately 3%. Considering the given manufacturer's global supply chain distribution network holds about $4 billion in average inventory, the 3% improvement is a very significant savings.

Computers & Industrial Engineering, 2015

Background/purpose: The occurrence of catastrophic events proves disastrous as they cause signifi... more Background/purpose: The occurrence of catastrophic events proves disastrous as they cause significant physical damages, both at the human and material levels. Depending on the magnitude of the event, a natural phenomenon can potentially lead to loss of life, home destruction and alter the economic and social structures of the affected community. The purpose of this study is to gain a deeper insight into the housing recovery process following a catastrophic event from the material resources perspective. Method: A System Dynamics (SD) model is developed in this paper to study the problem at the reconstruction/repair material supply level in an affected area. The model describes the behavior of material resources in the housing reconstruction and recovery planning a catastrophic event. Results: It enables deeper understanding of the implications of the occurrence of a disaster on the housing material fluctuations. This model considers, due to the resources shortage created, the amount of material adjustments to make in the aftermath of a highly disruptive event. Theoretical results show satisfaction as the model displays expected results, reflecting the importance of timing in decision making for supplies, in the housing recovery progress. Contribution: The proposed model brings more insight into the types of the housing recovery and the material demands over time. It provides a means to anticipate the demand requirements and alleviate the population's suffering, considering the uncertainties associated with disaster.

Proceedings of the Winter Simulation Conference

A course titled, "Process Design and Improvement-Computer Based Tools" was developed and offered ... more A course titled, "Process Design and Improvement-Computer Based Tools" was developed and offered by the authors in Fall 2000 and 2001 for part-time graduate students in Manufacturing Systems Engineering and Technology Management programs at the University of St. Thomas, Minnesota, <www.stthomas.edu/technology/2001Fall/MMSE 850-13-F01.htm>. The objective of the course is to introduce students to the current software and methods used to organize data and model manufacturing and industrial systems through virtual representation of business operations choosing problems from their workplaces. The course was created to make the complex processes and tools of computer modeling more accessible to non-specialists for a better understanding of how their operations work. It is not unusual that people only know a small part of their overall system. This gives them a way to see the big picture. A case study illustrates the application of these tools. 1.1.1 Integration Most of the manufacturing and service systems are currently being run on an informal basis. In an informal system, a feeling prevails that information could not be used properly in planning and decision making functions. A formal system, however, is run on numbers and these numbers are common, coming from the same database. These numbers differ in the level of their details.

Technovation, 2006

This paper presents a simple Excel spreadsheets-based model with @Risk add-in software that incor... more This paper presents a simple Excel spreadsheets-based model with @Risk add-in software that incorporates the effects of variability in demand, forecast and lead time. The model replicates a four-stage supply chain with multiple-retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and suppliers to demonstrate how a multi-product supply chain will react to certain changes. The model was created so that it could be used in either a teaching setting or in industry for making supply chain design decisions. From the teaching aspect, students can look at a supply chain and see the effects of changes without having to experience it firsthand. Professionals in industry can modify the model to make it more like their own supply chain and see what the affects are when they want to make changes in one or more attributes. Other key characteristics of a supply chain such as, bullwhip effect, total supply chain cost analysis and information sharing can also be studied using this model.

Technovation, 2004

The article presents a successful systematic organizational improvement effort at a mid-size elec... more The article presents a successful systematic organizational improvement effort at a mid-size electronics components manufacturer using process mapping and teamwork. The company was faced with increasing customer demand for a newly developed product line that it had not yet integrated into its appropriate production areas. It also had not clearly identified the long-term responsibilities of the engineering group it had assembled to support this new product line. A cross-functional team was charged to work on a business process redesign project, specifically targeting the quoting process (a bottleneck operation). It was intended not only to improve the quoting process, but also to force the clarification of the responsibilities of the new engineering group and thereby move them closer to integration with production function.

OR Insight, 2012

This article outlines a four-step approach in analysing a complex supply chain using optimization... more This article outlines a four-step approach in analysing a complex supply chain using optimization and simulation software tools. The first step consists of Multi-Echelon Optimization to determine the best supply chain structures. The second step involves a Discrete-Event Simulation to determine the appropriate supply chain configuration. The third step, Simulation-Optimization, is then used to improve the supply chain's design established in the first two steps by optimizing the policies used to govern the network's behaviour. The final step, Design for Robustness, ensures that the final selection of the supply chain's network structure and policies will operate well under a wide variety of situations by minimizing the risk of undesirable outcomes. Using a four-step methodology, supply chain modelling provides an efficient supply chain design operating under effective inventory, sourcing and transportation policies. A case study from a Fortune 500 manufacturing company is evaluated using the four-step methodology. Future studies are outlined.

OR Insight, 2011

Catastrophes cause significant physical damage and destruction, potential loss of life and disrup... more Catastrophes cause significant physical damage and destruction, potential loss of life and disruption to the structure of society. However, many times, the relief efforts, although well-intentioned, fail to efficiently and effectively reach the intended victims. The evidence of supply chain effectiveness is examined and highlighted instances when the supply chain has failed. Key stages identified within the relief supply chain, and these stages must be connected through communication and collaboration. The failure mode effects and critical analysis method was used to assess the reliability of a relief supply chain system and its critical components. This research suggests the structure that seems to achieve the most effective results is one that involves authority derived from a network or industry expertise. This structure makes use of expertise in each area of the supply chain, as well as, taking advantage of the relationships and trust that local NGO's have built in areas throughout the world.

The Journal of the Operational Research Society, 1990

This paper develops optimal inventory-management rules for an n-item system supplied by a common ... more This paper develops optimal inventory-management rules for an n-item system supplied by a common vendor and with constant demand rates for the various items. The model allows planned stockouts, whose optimal values are determined on the basis of the total cost minimization.

Journal of Revenue and Pricing Management, 2007

is a Professor of Decision Sciences and Qwest Endowed Chair in Global Communications and Technolo... more is a Professor of Decision Sciences and Qwest Endowed Chair in Global Communications and Technology Management in the Opus College of Business, University of St Thomas. Major research interests include optimisation concepts applied to design and operational management of production and service systems where issues relating to various aspects of global supply chain management, international operations, technology management, product and process innovation, and capital Investment justification decisions are also considered.

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 2007

... This allows the retailer to design, produce, and deliver a garment in 15 days to US stores ac... more ... This allows the retailer to design, produce, and deliver a garment in 15 days to US stores according to a 2005 profile on Zara by Harvard ... in Europe, but it is only slightly more than 1 percent of the $172 billion apparel market in the USA, according to a 2004 Bain and Company ...

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2007

This study is the first empirical investigation of the impact of Radio Frequency Identification (... more This study is the first empirical investigation of the impact of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology utilization on a manufacturing organization's ability to implement environmental sustainability practices and the organization's level of environmental performance. The purpose of the study is to investigate the relationships among RFID technology utilization, environmental sustainability practices, and environmental performance. A structural model depicting the impact (direct and indirect through green supply chain management practices) on environmental performance is theorized. The efficacy of the model is assessed using a Partial-Least-Squares structural equation modeling methodology based on data from a sample of manufacturing managers. The results suggest that RFID technology utilization is positively associated with green supply chain management practices and environmental performance. This study contributes to the understanding of the impact of a specific technology, RFID, on environmental sustainability. RFID technology utilization is established as a viable component of a manufacturing organization's environmental sustainability strategy.

International Journal of Business Performance Management, 2007

This study reviews global operations of leading Information Technology (IT) and software developm... more This study reviews global operations of leading Information Technology (IT) and software development companies from the USA and India. These companies over the years have become key IT players in software outsourcing in the world. As the industry evolves, India is endorsing Software Technology Parks throughout the country. Established software leaders in the USA benefit from cost savings and increased flexibility derived from such outsourcing partnerships enabling them to stay competitive in the global market. Low-cost technology destinations like India are benefiting from the increase in disposable income supporting expansion of the global economy. The analyses using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), financial performance data and Porter's five-forces indicate a common business strategy of Indian IT and software companies. They do not compete head on with the US counterparts and instead focus on acquiring niche outsourcing markets that are still open and growing rapidly due to worldwide slowdown in IT spending budgets.

Interfaces, 2000

We surveyed industries to determine what factors trigger reengineering, the nature of reengineeri... more We surveyed industries to determine what factors trigger reengineering, the nature of reengineering projects, common causes of failure, some guidelines for reducing the chances of failure, and ways to minimize losses incurred while recovering from failed projects. Improving enterprise integration is essential to improving system performance. The advances in information technology make achieving integration feasible even in very complex systems. Decision makers, instead of striving to achieve local objectives can optimize extended value-added functions that include co-related customers. They can optimize entire supply chains reaching to end customers (both internal and external). Petrinets, tools for simulating complex systems, provide a useful frames for iteratively optimizing supply chains.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2006

PurposeThe cosmetic industry is a very lucrative, innovative, and fast paced industry where produ... more PurposeThe cosmetic industry is a very lucrative, innovative, and fast paced industry where product innovation is the key to success. The purpose of this paper is to present a detailed analytical (qualitative) study of cosmetic industry in the global marketplace with a focus on the four market leaders in this industry relative to their business and innovation strategies.Design/methodology/approachBusiness analyses include Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), Porter's value chain and five forces, and financial applied to the four industry leaders.FindingsEach of these cosmetic companies is unique. They each offer something different to the industry; selling method, marketing strategy, product line, and distribution channel.Practical implicationsThe industry trends indicate that the future of cosmetics may move towards more joint ventures between drug companies, cosmetic companies and nutritional/food companies as cosmetic companies look for new ways to be inno...

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2000

Supply chain management is a major issue in many industries as firms realize the importance of cr... more Supply chain management is a major issue in many industries as firms realize the importance of creating an integrated relationship with their suppliers and customers. Managing the supply chain has become a way of improving competitiveness by reducing uncertainty and enhancing customer service. This paper analyzes various issues important to supply chain management and provides broader awareness of supply chain principles and concepts. The role of planning and coordination in complex integrated systems and information technology to synchronize the supply chain is described in a framework that creates the appropriate structure and installs proper controls in the enterprise and other constituents in the chain.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2004

Examines five companies from different market segments with initial public offerings in the past ... more Examines five companies from different market segments with initial public offerings in the past five years, representing a wide range of products. The companies were Cabot Microelectronics, Alliance Fiber Optics Products, Adams Golf, King Pharmaceuticals, and Gadzooks Networks. The companies’ stock price trend, revenue, and net gain or losses were evaluated to determine how each of them was performing financially. In addition, each company’s product offerings market trends, product innovations, and market success were examined to determine what factors aid in a company performing well financially. A small perspective was given on the future outlook for a typical company and its products.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2003

The past decade has witnessed dramatic changes in the types and composition of the workforce. A g... more The past decade has witnessed dramatic changes in the types and composition of the workforce. A greater number of employees are able to work from home. Job seekers have better access to available jobs today than ever before. Likewise, employers have greater access to available potential candidates. In this context, a variety of approaches including intelligent agents to facilitate the search for employment are reviewed. The impact of the Internet on human resources management from employees’ and employers’ perspectives and resulting trends are analyzed. Based on the author’s industry interactions and statistics, answers are sought to many pertinent questions relating to quality human resource initiatives to link with a technologically adept workforce. A human capital supply chain management framework is proposed which has decision‐support capability in an Internet environment that provides value‐based relationships between partners.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2001

Describes research to identify and pilot an improved planning and fulfilment process at Noramco, ... more Describes research to identify and pilot an improved planning and fulfilment process at Noramco, a manufacturing division of General Pump. The focus was to develop a synchronized system from source to consumption with continuous flow of information and materials for one of Noramco’s main product lines. System‐wide changes were accomplished using a cross‐functional team with the goal of reducing waste and investment in inventory. Traditional measures of manufacturing efficiency and utilization were compared with proposed measurements of through‐put (T), investment in inventory (I), and operating expense (OE). Although traditional measures showed actual decline, proposed measures showed improvement and increased profitability of 200 per cent for this product line. These new performance measures reflected a change from local to global thinking. Improved capacity management in the system was achieved by sharing information between suppliers and customers.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2001

The concept of supply chain is about managing coordinated information and material flows, plant o... more The concept of supply chain is about managing coordinated information and material flows, plant operations, and logistics. It provides flexibility and agility in responding to consumer demand shifts without cost overlays in resource utilization. The fundamental premise of this philosophy is; synchronization among multiple autonomous business entities represented in it. That is, improved coordination within and between various supply-chain members. Increased coordination can lead to reduction in lead times and costs, alignment of interdependent decision-making processes, and improvement in the overall performance of each member as well as the supply chain. Describes architecture to create the appropriate structure, install proper controls, and implement principles of optimization to synchronize the supply chain. A supply-chain model based on a collaborative system approach is illustrated utilizing the example of the textile industry.

Information Knowledge Systems Management, 2012

The system dynamics (SD) modeling approach is used to study the U.S., Japan and EU auto industrie... more The system dynamics (SD) modeling approach is used to study the U.S., Japan and EU auto industries' closed loop supply chains. The objectives of this study are to examine the impact on these three supply chains of: government regulations; financial incentives for recycling, remanufacturing, and salvage; the export of used cars; market pricing for remanufactured, salvage and recycle materials on cash flows; and use of such materials for car manufacturers and routine car maintenance and repair considering similarities and differences. Disposal of cars that have reached end of life phase in the U.S., Japan and EU, as well as, the export of used cars by Japan to emerging economies are examined. Base scenario analysis using car consumption data and forecasts are explored. The SD model was also subjected to boundary conditions tests for structural validity. Dynamic analyses of different market scenarios for the U.S., Japan and EU auto industries' value chains are also conducted. The study shows the impact of government regulations, financial incentives and market pricing for remanufactured, salvage and recycle materials have a positive, but differing impact on cash flows and use of such raw materials for car manufacturers in these three market segments.

Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 2015

This paper studies how a global manufacturer with many subsidiaries can achieve enhanced business... more This paper studies how a global manufacturer with many subsidiaries can achieve enhanced business value for the organization by sharing information within its supply chain network. Specifically, the uncertainties in the demands from the downstream distribution center affect the inventory levels at the upstream distribution center under different inventory policies, considering the uncertain lead times and the given order fill rates. With a generic simulation model and real data, we evaluate the magnitude of savings in inventory under the new inventory policy where information can be shared among subsidiaries, compared to the status quo where subsidiaries run independently with no information sharing. The results show that average inventory level at the upstream DC under the new policy would be reduced by approximately 3%. Considering the given manufacturer's global supply chain distribution network holds about $4 billion in average inventory, the 3% improvement is a very significant savings.

Computers & Industrial Engineering, 2015

Background/purpose: The occurrence of catastrophic events proves disastrous as they cause signifi... more Background/purpose: The occurrence of catastrophic events proves disastrous as they cause significant physical damages, both at the human and material levels. Depending on the magnitude of the event, a natural phenomenon can potentially lead to loss of life, home destruction and alter the economic and social structures of the affected community. The purpose of this study is to gain a deeper insight into the housing recovery process following a catastrophic event from the material resources perspective. Method: A System Dynamics (SD) model is developed in this paper to study the problem at the reconstruction/repair material supply level in an affected area. The model describes the behavior of material resources in the housing reconstruction and recovery planning a catastrophic event. Results: It enables deeper understanding of the implications of the occurrence of a disaster on the housing material fluctuations. This model considers, due to the resources shortage created, the amount of material adjustments to make in the aftermath of a highly disruptive event. Theoretical results show satisfaction as the model displays expected results, reflecting the importance of timing in decision making for supplies, in the housing recovery progress. Contribution: The proposed model brings more insight into the types of the housing recovery and the material demands over time. It provides a means to anticipate the demand requirements and alleviate the population's suffering, considering the uncertainties associated with disaster.

Proceedings of the Winter Simulation Conference

A course titled, "Process Design and Improvement-Computer Based Tools" was developed and offered ... more A course titled, "Process Design and Improvement-Computer Based Tools" was developed and offered by the authors in Fall 2000 and 2001 for part-time graduate students in Manufacturing Systems Engineering and Technology Management programs at the University of St. Thomas, Minnesota, <www.stthomas.edu/technology/2001Fall/MMSE 850-13-F01.htm>. The objective of the course is to introduce students to the current software and methods used to organize data and model manufacturing and industrial systems through virtual representation of business operations choosing problems from their workplaces. The course was created to make the complex processes and tools of computer modeling more accessible to non-specialists for a better understanding of how their operations work. It is not unusual that people only know a small part of their overall system. This gives them a way to see the big picture. A case study illustrates the application of these tools. 1.1.1 Integration Most of the manufacturing and service systems are currently being run on an informal basis. In an informal system, a feeling prevails that information could not be used properly in planning and decision making functions. A formal system, however, is run on numbers and these numbers are common, coming from the same database. These numbers differ in the level of their details.

Technovation, 2006

This paper presents a simple Excel spreadsheets-based model with @Risk add-in software that incor... more This paper presents a simple Excel spreadsheets-based model with @Risk add-in software that incorporates the effects of variability in demand, forecast and lead time. The model replicates a four-stage supply chain with multiple-retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and suppliers to demonstrate how a multi-product supply chain will react to certain changes. The model was created so that it could be used in either a teaching setting or in industry for making supply chain design decisions. From the teaching aspect, students can look at a supply chain and see the effects of changes without having to experience it firsthand. Professionals in industry can modify the model to make it more like their own supply chain and see what the affects are when they want to make changes in one or more attributes. Other key characteristics of a supply chain such as, bullwhip effect, total supply chain cost analysis and information sharing can also be studied using this model.

Technovation, 2004

The article presents a successful systematic organizational improvement effort at a mid-size elec... more The article presents a successful systematic organizational improvement effort at a mid-size electronics components manufacturer using process mapping and teamwork. The company was faced with increasing customer demand for a newly developed product line that it had not yet integrated into its appropriate production areas. It also had not clearly identified the long-term responsibilities of the engineering group it had assembled to support this new product line. A cross-functional team was charged to work on a business process redesign project, specifically targeting the quoting process (a bottleneck operation). It was intended not only to improve the quoting process, but also to force the clarification of the responsibilities of the new engineering group and thereby move them closer to integration with production function.

OR Insight, 2012

This article outlines a four-step approach in analysing a complex supply chain using optimization... more This article outlines a four-step approach in analysing a complex supply chain using optimization and simulation software tools. The first step consists of Multi-Echelon Optimization to determine the best supply chain structures. The second step involves a Discrete-Event Simulation to determine the appropriate supply chain configuration. The third step, Simulation-Optimization, is then used to improve the supply chain's design established in the first two steps by optimizing the policies used to govern the network's behaviour. The final step, Design for Robustness, ensures that the final selection of the supply chain's network structure and policies will operate well under a wide variety of situations by minimizing the risk of undesirable outcomes. Using a four-step methodology, supply chain modelling provides an efficient supply chain design operating under effective inventory, sourcing and transportation policies. A case study from a Fortune 500 manufacturing company is evaluated using the four-step methodology. Future studies are outlined.

OR Insight, 2011

Catastrophes cause significant physical damage and destruction, potential loss of life and disrup... more Catastrophes cause significant physical damage and destruction, potential loss of life and disruption to the structure of society. However, many times, the relief efforts, although well-intentioned, fail to efficiently and effectively reach the intended victims. The evidence of supply chain effectiveness is examined and highlighted instances when the supply chain has failed. Key stages identified within the relief supply chain, and these stages must be connected through communication and collaboration. The failure mode effects and critical analysis method was used to assess the reliability of a relief supply chain system and its critical components. This research suggests the structure that seems to achieve the most effective results is one that involves authority derived from a network or industry expertise. This structure makes use of expertise in each area of the supply chain, as well as, taking advantage of the relationships and trust that local NGO's have built in areas throughout the world.

The Journal of the Operational Research Society, 1990

This paper develops optimal inventory-management rules for an n-item system supplied by a common ... more This paper develops optimal inventory-management rules for an n-item system supplied by a common vendor and with constant demand rates for the various items. The model allows planned stockouts, whose optimal values are determined on the basis of the total cost minimization.

Journal of Revenue and Pricing Management, 2007

is a Professor of Decision Sciences and Qwest Endowed Chair in Global Communications and Technolo... more is a Professor of Decision Sciences and Qwest Endowed Chair in Global Communications and Technology Management in the Opus College of Business, University of St Thomas. Major research interests include optimisation concepts applied to design and operational management of production and service systems where issues relating to various aspects of global supply chain management, international operations, technology management, product and process innovation, and capital Investment justification decisions are also considered.

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 2007

... This allows the retailer to design, produce, and deliver a garment in 15 days to US stores ac... more ... This allows the retailer to design, produce, and deliver a garment in 15 days to US stores according to a 2005 profile on Zara by Harvard ... in Europe, but it is only slightly more than 1 percent of the $172 billion apparel market in the USA, according to a 2004 Bain and Company ...

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2007

This study is the first empirical investigation of the impact of Radio Frequency Identification (... more This study is the first empirical investigation of the impact of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology utilization on a manufacturing organization's ability to implement environmental sustainability practices and the organization's level of environmental performance. The purpose of the study is to investigate the relationships among RFID technology utilization, environmental sustainability practices, and environmental performance. A structural model depicting the impact (direct and indirect through green supply chain management practices) on environmental performance is theorized. The efficacy of the model is assessed using a Partial-Least-Squares structural equation modeling methodology based on data from a sample of manufacturing managers. The results suggest that RFID technology utilization is positively associated with green supply chain management practices and environmental performance. This study contributes to the understanding of the impact of a specific technology, RFID, on environmental sustainability. RFID technology utilization is established as a viable component of a manufacturing organization's environmental sustainability strategy.

International Journal of Business Performance Management, 2007

This study reviews global operations of leading Information Technology (IT) and software developm... more This study reviews global operations of leading Information Technology (IT) and software development companies from the USA and India. These companies over the years have become key IT players in software outsourcing in the world. As the industry evolves, India is endorsing Software Technology Parks throughout the country. Established software leaders in the USA benefit from cost savings and increased flexibility derived from such outsourcing partnerships enabling them to stay competitive in the global market. Low-cost technology destinations like India are benefiting from the increase in disposable income supporting expansion of the global economy. The analyses using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), financial performance data and Porter's five-forces indicate a common business strategy of Indian IT and software companies. They do not compete head on with the US counterparts and instead focus on acquiring niche outsourcing markets that are still open and growing rapidly due to worldwide slowdown in IT spending budgets.

Interfaces, 2000

We surveyed industries to determine what factors trigger reengineering, the nature of reengineeri... more We surveyed industries to determine what factors trigger reengineering, the nature of reengineering projects, common causes of failure, some guidelines for reducing the chances of failure, and ways to minimize losses incurred while recovering from failed projects. Improving enterprise integration is essential to improving system performance. The advances in information technology make achieving integration feasible even in very complex systems. Decision makers, instead of striving to achieve local objectives can optimize extended value-added functions that include co-related customers. They can optimize entire supply chains reaching to end customers (both internal and external). Petrinets, tools for simulating complex systems, provide a useful frames for iteratively optimizing supply chains.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2006

PurposeThe cosmetic industry is a very lucrative, innovative, and fast paced industry where produ... more PurposeThe cosmetic industry is a very lucrative, innovative, and fast paced industry where product innovation is the key to success. The purpose of this paper is to present a detailed analytical (qualitative) study of cosmetic industry in the global marketplace with a focus on the four market leaders in this industry relative to their business and innovation strategies.Design/methodology/approachBusiness analyses include Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), Porter's value chain and five forces, and financial applied to the four industry leaders.FindingsEach of these cosmetic companies is unique. They each offer something different to the industry; selling method, marketing strategy, product line, and distribution channel.Practical implicationsThe industry trends indicate that the future of cosmetics may move towards more joint ventures between drug companies, cosmetic companies and nutritional/food companies as cosmetic companies look for new ways to be inno...

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2000

Supply chain management is a major issue in many industries as firms realize the importance of cr... more Supply chain management is a major issue in many industries as firms realize the importance of creating an integrated relationship with their suppliers and customers. Managing the supply chain has become a way of improving competitiveness by reducing uncertainty and enhancing customer service. This paper analyzes various issues important to supply chain management and provides broader awareness of supply chain principles and concepts. The role of planning and coordination in complex integrated systems and information technology to synchronize the supply chain is described in a framework that creates the appropriate structure and installs proper controls in the enterprise and other constituents in the chain.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2004

Examines five companies from different market segments with initial public offerings in the past ... more Examines five companies from different market segments with initial public offerings in the past five years, representing a wide range of products. The companies were Cabot Microelectronics, Alliance Fiber Optics Products, Adams Golf, King Pharmaceuticals, and Gadzooks Networks. The companies’ stock price trend, revenue, and net gain or losses were evaluated to determine how each of them was performing financially. In addition, each company’s product offerings market trends, product innovations, and market success were examined to determine what factors aid in a company performing well financially. A small perspective was given on the future outlook for a typical company and its products.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2003

The past decade has witnessed dramatic changes in the types and composition of the workforce. A g... more The past decade has witnessed dramatic changes in the types and composition of the workforce. A greater number of employees are able to work from home. Job seekers have better access to available jobs today than ever before. Likewise, employers have greater access to available potential candidates. In this context, a variety of approaches including intelligent agents to facilitate the search for employment are reviewed. The impact of the Internet on human resources management from employees’ and employers’ perspectives and resulting trends are analyzed. Based on the author’s industry interactions and statistics, answers are sought to many pertinent questions relating to quality human resource initiatives to link with a technologically adept workforce. A human capital supply chain management framework is proposed which has decision‐support capability in an Internet environment that provides value‐based relationships between partners.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2001

Describes research to identify and pilot an improved planning and fulfilment process at Noramco, ... more Describes research to identify and pilot an improved planning and fulfilment process at Noramco, a manufacturing division of General Pump. The focus was to develop a synchronized system from source to consumption with continuous flow of information and materials for one of Noramco’s main product lines. System‐wide changes were accomplished using a cross‐functional team with the goal of reducing waste and investment in inventory. Traditional measures of manufacturing efficiency and utilization were compared with proposed measurements of through‐put (T), investment in inventory (I), and operating expense (OE). Although traditional measures showed actual decline, proposed measures showed improvement and increased profitability of 200 per cent for this product line. These new performance measures reflected a change from local to global thinking. Improved capacity management in the system was achieved by sharing information between suppliers and customers.

Industrial Management & Data Systems, 2001

The concept of supply chain is about managing coordinated information and material flows, plant o... more The concept of supply chain is about managing coordinated information and material flows, plant operations, and logistics. It provides flexibility and agility in responding to consumer demand shifts without cost overlays in resource utilization. The fundamental premise of this philosophy is; synchronization among multiple autonomous business entities represented in it. That is, improved coordination within and between various supply-chain members. Increased coordination can lead to reduction in lead times and costs, alignment of interdependent decision-making processes, and improvement in the overall performance of each member as well as the supply chain. Describes architecture to create the appropriate structure, install proper controls, and implement principles of optimization to synchronize the supply chain. A supply-chain model based on a collaborative system approach is illustrated utilizing the example of the textile industry.