Dynamic Model and Graphical User Interface: A Solution for the Distribution Process of Regional Products

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Abstract
Organizations in the agroindustry sector face shorter delivery schedules; therefore, they are seeking ways to conduct more effective and less costly product distribution. Supply chain management efforts have focused on improving the flow of both products and information. Thus, the aim of this case study was to build a graphical user interface to enable decision-making based on quantitative information for a food distribution process. The problem to be solved was associated with the development of a technological solution to reduce and control variations in transportation times, delivery costs and capacities in cold and dry food distribution. An eight-step system for a dynamics methodology was used: (1) distribution process analysis, (2) route description, (3) variable and parameter description, (4) causal loop diagram creation, (5) current model simulation, (6) validation, (7) quantitative scenario construction based on key performance indicators, and (8) graphical user interface development. The main findings of this research were that the graphical user interface and simulation showed information that represented on average 56.49% of the total distribution costs regarding fuel and that maintenance and tire wearing costs had less of an impact on total costs, representing 9.21% and 3.66% of the total costs, respectively. Additionally, the technological solution—created for the supply chain in the distribution process against the background of changes in policies—makes it possible to improve decision-making based on different scenarios supported by a graphical interface according to key performance indicators. This solution could be used by different organizations who aim to reduce logistics and transportation costs. The main implications of this research were the available and organized information and the restructuring of the distribution process.

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