What are the key features and criteria to compare different network design tools and software?

However, how often you will redesign your network? Large scale supply chain companies (Mondelez, PEPSICO, etc) have continous redesing processes within their road to market strategies. However, even they review the supply chain design x1 or x2 a year. With such frequency extract, trasform, load (ETL) process doesn not require tight integration with ERP, WMS, or other operational systems. Therefore I don't consider the data integration a key feature of supply chain design software. Even from supply chain consulting company perspective this is not a key priority. For each customer company the systems to extract information from are different. When selecting software focus on other criteria.

In market many network optimizzation tools are present each having different ability to integrate with the system ! Many tools offers integration with cloud databases from which it can fetch the data as well as write the model result. This is importatnt criteria for someone who is looking for end to end integration.

You should look for capabilities like real-time data analysis, integration with current systems, and the capacity to simulate complicated networks when comparing software and tools for network design. The criteria should also prioritize ease of use, scalability, and adaptability to different design situations and limitations. To make sure the technology works for your business, check over the customization possibilities and the amount of support it offers.

Para comparar diferentes ferramentas de projeto de rede e software, entendemos que o primeiro recurso a ser considerado, é na verdade, entender o valor para o cliente em profundidade. Parece óbvio, mas muitas vezes n?o é: é preciso compreender, projetar, produzir e entregar exatamente o que os clientes desejam (ou precisam). A partir disso, ent?o é necessário desenvolver processos e rotinas específicas, maximizando a utiliza??o das capacidades humanas e tecnológicas para criar experiências perfeitas para os clientes.

For me, the key to effective network design starts with bringing all our data together in one place. I believe in the power of collaboration, so working closely with different departments to integrate diverse data sources ensures we’re all on the same page. This unified approach not only improves the accuracy of our network designs but also strengthens our team’s collective insight.

Modellers can have certain hubris when creating optimisation models! In most cases, it's fantastic. When considering the modelling and tool capabilities you need, consider whether it will take under an hour or days on the most powerful computing systems. Here are the tips to consider when choosing the tool's modelling capabilities & how to model: 1. Modelled excessive on/off variables (binaries)? 2. Input data vary greatly - say the demand units modelled go from 0.001 kg to 10^9 kg? 3. Modelled too many constraints & tied constraints? - sometimes, it helps :-) 4. Advanced modellers - Tool allows to influence CPLEX/Gurobi, etc, parameters? It's useful! 5. Additional tools (Alteryx/KNIME, PowerBI/Tableau) for ingesting data & reporting?

This is the key! Before selecting the tool you need to know what you want to achieve: ?? compare designs (number warehouses, DCs/FCs, connections between them, modes of transport) ?? simulate growth (and have risk assesment in various scenarios of split between nodes) ?? optimize flows or find bottlenecks (within nodes, or even within specific warehoueses) Not every supply chain design software has each option available. For the last point check FlexSim. For the first two points you can compare solutions like SupplyChainApps, anyLogistix, AnyLogic, AIMMS.

In network design solutions, modeling capabilities play a pivotal role. Key elements are Custom Constraints: Modeling tools must allow seamless integration of custom constraints. This feature empowers businesses to tailor the network model to their unique operational requirements. Dynamic SC Footprints: The ability to add and modify supply chain footprints without freezing the model is crucial. It ensures an agile approach, adapting to the ever-evolving dynamics of the supply chain. Handling Complexity and Runtime Efficiency: A proficient modeling tool efficiently manages large, complex models. The choice of solver impacts runtime efficiency, influencing swift decision-making in supply chain management.

I can share some perspective from a ease of model building side. This js more from team members who have a supply chain expertise and can build in constraints into the model with their practical experience. Ease of modelling may help the domain guys to build models which can be more practical closer to the fields or sites. Sharing some novice like thoughts.

Há diversas ferramentas digitais disponíveis como recursos de modelagem. Há que se buscar pelas que podem ampliar consideravelmente a capacidade de capturar o que de fato significa valor para os clientes. O principal desafio talvez seja retroalimentar os esfor?os de desenvolvimento a partir dessa percep??o “na ponta”. Como garantir que todos os “inputs” sobre o desempenho esperado da rede (a partir por exemplo de SACs, NPS etc.) de fato retroalimentem os esfor?os de desenvolvimento? Voltamos aqui, ent?o, ao escopo claro de se entender o valor para o cliente.

In my journey steering Supply Chains, I've learned optimisation algorithms are the backbone of effective supply chain softwares. They empower us to make data-driven decisions, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. When evaluating tools, look beyond surface features; scrutinise the algorithm's adaptability to real-world complexities. A practical tip: engage in trials, simulate your specific challenges, and observe. The right tool should offer clarity, not just data!

Algoritmos ou heurísticas podem de fato colaborar na otimiza??o de redes. Contudo, sempre bom lembrar a importancia de manter a presen?a no gemba (local real) para observar in loco as contramedidas e percebendo a opini?o real de quem opera os fluxos. Outra preocupa??o concerne à qualidade dos dados inseridos para os algoritmos. Toda atividade de otimiza??o deve ser refletida e questionada continuamente com evidências empíricas. Assim, evita-se uma confian?a demasiada e muitas vezes prejudicial em ferramentas de mercado que podem funcionar inadequadamente para um cenário específico.

When it comes to optimization, I’m all about finding the perfect balance between efficiency and flexibility. I prefer tools that allow us to customize algorithms to fit our specific needs. I often seek input from IT, operations, and strategy teams because I trust that their diverse perspectives will lead to the best outcomes. This collaborative approach ensures our algorithms are truly optimized for our unique objectives.

In my years at the helm, scenario analysis stood out as pivotal in network design. It's not about predictions; it’s about preparedness. Tools that deftly handle multiple 'what-ifs' equip us for volatility. Choose software that allows easy adjustment of variables - think customer demand, supply chain disruptions, or cost changes. This adaptability has been crucial. Effective tools turn uncertainty into strategy, ensuring we're always a step ahead, never reactive!

Para análise dos cenários de design de rede, pode ser considerada a prática do 3P, amplamente utilizada em desenvolvimento de processos. No 3P, o conceito de “set-based” (considerar várias alternativas de processo em cenários diferentes) no lugar do tradicional “point-based” (escolha de um único conceito de processo). O objetivo é desenvolver um conjunto de alternativas cujos pontos fortes convirjam para uma rede mais robusta, ao passo que os pontos fracos sejam eliminados ou substituídos.

I see scenario analysis as a powerful way to prepare for the unexpected. Personally, I like to involve the whole team in exploring various ‘what-if’ scenarios. I find that when everyone contributes, we uncover risks and opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked. This shared effort not only helps us build stronger strategies but also creates a sense of ownership and readiness across the team.

Para uma eficaz visualiza??o ao comparar diferentes ferramentas de projeto de rede e software, mais que dispor de gera??o de softwares capazes de gerar relatórios, é importante preconizar a gest?o visual. Recursos, como uma "obeya" (sala grande), ou quadros de Gerenciamento Diário (GD) permitem com clareza estabelecer os recursos visuais para que a equipe do projeto, ou qualquer outro interessado, possa olhar para o frame e com facilidade compreender o que está se transmitindo e tomar as melhores decis?es em conjunto. De forma simples, prática e objetiva, solu??es como a gest?o visual colaboram para a transforma??o efetiva em gest?o de projetos, particularmente da cadeia de suprimentos.

I’ve always believed that data is only as good as the story it tells. That’s why I prioritize tools with strong visualization and reporting features. I like to customize dashboards and reports so that they’re meaningful to each team member. When the visuals are clear and relevant, it makes it easier for everyone to engage with the data and make informed decisions together.

Nowadays most software are already user friendly and have well UIX. Anyway, even if they didn't, or if you enter modeling directly in Python or other language, more important are points mentioned above. Do select software on 'how it looks'?? or on the robustness of results it deliver and scope of possibilities / modelling functionalities.

Logistics is and will continue to be industry involving real people. Many great tools fail to serve its purpose due to lack of adaptability. Few things to consider while desiging UI for network modeling software, 1. Understand End User : What background most end user would have? Are they from technology or engineering or some other background? 2. Testing : How long doesnit take End User to understand and nevigate the tool/Software? 3. Feedback: Will user utilize this tool frequently? If not, why?

For me, a tool is only effective if it’s easy to use. I’m always mindful of the user experience, ensuring that any software we choose is accessible to the entire team. I prefer tools that offer robust training and support because I want everyone to feel confident and empowered in their roles. By involving the team in the selection process, we ensure that the tool we choose is not just powerful but also a good fit for how we work.

In addition you have to check the customization option, the softeware should have a high ability to customize dashboards and reports according to user preferences and organizational needs.

As cadeias de suprimento necessitam priorizar capacidades digitais, particularmente em seus projetos de rede e software. Entretanto, elas devem equilibrar o investimento de longo prazo em automa??o com a implementa??o de solu??es digitais escaláveis centradas na análise de fatos e dados a partir de times ou squads. Neste sentido, a gest?o lean é um importante viabilizador no desenvolvimento de capacidades analíticas em apoio à transforma??o digital mais ampla na cadeia.

I’m always thinking about the bigger picture, so I look beyond just the technical specs. I like to consider things like scalability, integration with our existing systems, and overall cost. I believe that involving the team in these considerations helps us make choices that are sustainable in the long run. By taking a thoughtful, collaborative approach, we can select tools that support our growth and success, now and in the future.