Analysing Supply Chain Strategies Using Knowledge-Based Techniques

We are experiencing a digital revolution that is rapidly changing the way business is conducted. In this new economy, information is shared speedily and many participants are collaborating. Effective and seamless collaboration between distributed supply chain members is therefore crucial. To understand how this may be done, we describe a knowledge based framework for abstracting, enriching, analysing and improving Supply chain models. We employ business process modelling as a useful methodology for capturing and analysing supply chain strategies. In addition, we use a meta-interpreter and workflow engine for simulating business processes to help understand business scenarios. Its declarative approach makes business rationale more transparent. Our work is demonstrated by looking at a case study of Dell's supply chain management that depicts its PC supply chain operation logics and strategies.