Logistics is a cross-functional area focusing on the effective and efficient flows of goods and services, and the related flows of information and cash. Supply Chain Management(SCM) adds a process-oriented and cross-company perspective.

The process orientation implies emphasis on business processes like Demand Planning, Order Fulfillment, Customer Service Management and Procurement Management. The cross-company perspective focuses on the links and interfaces between the companies, e.g. vendors, manufacturers, distributors, third-party logistics providers and customers, in a supply chain. Globalization of trade and supply chain relations adds to the challenges and potential for improved effectiveness and efficiencies of supply networks.

The research in this area is carried out with a methodology founded in Operations Research (OR) to optimize and coordinate supply chain structures and processes. OR deals with analytical and numerical models, methods and tools in combination with applied Information Technology (IT) to support improved decision making. Modern Information Systems provide opportunities for data mining and synchronization across operational units, companies and geographical locations.

Theoretical and practical research topics

Research is conducted from theoretical as well as practical perspectives using both descriptive and normative models. Currently, our research interests focus mainly on the following topics:

• Application of OR methodology in Logistics/SCM areas such as production planning, inventory control, distribution/vehicle routing, and facility location. This includes research on current concepts like lean production, vendor managed inventory (VMI), and supply chain design.
• Design and use of models and methods in IT-based Decision Support Systems (DSS) for logistics/SCM. This includes work related to Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) systems, IT-systems for transportation planning, and E-business systems.
• Analyses of management and measurements of logistics performance, especially with respect to SCM and the implications for management accounting.
• Cooperation with a number of Danish companies in the field of logistics/SCM.