Optimization of supply chain planning under uncertainty

In this paper, a survey of existing methods for supply planning optimization under uncertainty is given. The analysis shows that there are no global models taking into account all the principal factors (random lead time, random demand level, complex product structure,...). The existing approaches (MRP and Operations research methods) have also several other disadvantages. In these conditions, the proposed solution is to create a tools-box containing the partial models. Then, the planning model for each concrete industrial case will be composed of different models from this tools-box. A simulation environment will assure integration. Copyright (C) 2000 IFAC.