Frank P. Buffa

JUST-IN-TIME -- SOME EFFECTS ON THE LOGISTICS FUNCTION

This article provides an analysis of inbound logistics incorporated in a JIT manufacturing environment. An inventory‐theoretic model is presented that measures the implications of JIT manufacturing on the logistics process and the ability of inbound consolidation opportunities to accommodate these implications. Key components of the inventory‐theoretic model are indentified and the sensitivity of the model to these components is analysed.

Using Buyer–Supplier Performance Frontiers to Manage Relationship Performance*

This article presents a consensus-building methodology to implement dyadic performance measurement. It focuses on transmuting supplier performance and buyer performance metrics on several important attributes into actionable relationship management plans using Clarks (1996) theory of performance frontiers. Access to the supplier performance management program of a Fortune 100 corporation was granted to the research team. Direct observation of practice and in-depth discussions with several managers provided a roadmap for investigating both the literature on quantitative evaluation methods and the empirically derived theory on buyer–supplier relationships from several perspectives. This study describes a multiphase, iterative framework that uses current methods and theory on dyadic buyer–supplier evaluation to consider: (i) evaluation criteria and their importance; (ii) whether the improvement focus should be on strengths, weaknesses, or both; and (iii) whether the referent role supplier should be the ideal supplier, best supplier, or best-in-strategic-group supplier in the focal supply base. We illustrate a unifying approach by reporting results from a large buyer and 35 of its key suppliers. This research makes the case for managing supplier relationships through the dyadic performance lens. The outputs from this framework provide individual supplier improvement paths which are actionable prescriptions for each buyer–supplier dyad, as well as recommendations for strategic group formation.

INBOUND LOGISTICS : ANALYSING INBOUND CONSOLIDATION OPPORTUNITIES

Consolidation, the grouping of several small shipments into one at a designated location, can reduce total logistics cost. Total logistics cost includes consolidation, transportation and inventory costs. Identifying where cost‐saving opportunities exist is often confused by the interrelated nature of these various costs.

Supplier post performance evaluation: the effects of buyer preference weight variance

We use empirical post performance data of suppliers and buyers to demonstrate that degrees of variability of buyer evaluation team weight preferences can have varying effects on the perception of supplier performance attributes. We first justify then use data envelopment analysis (DEA) as a research tool to integrate buyer performance and buyer weight preferences with supplier performance and then use the results of the dyadic DEA evaluation model to analyse three propositions. This integration is essential to a dyadic approach. Results indicate that buyer preference weights on supplier performance attributes influence the perception of supplier performance sometimes in unexpected ways dependent on the degree of conformity versus disparity in the factor weights that was put into operation using assurance regions. As a result, buyer performance factors and preferences must be measured and their effects understood before post performance supplier evaluation is completed and other components of a relationship management plan are implemented.

Implications of Inbound Lead Time Variability for Just‐in‐Time Manufacturing

This article provides a discussion of key components for the decisionmaker concerned with the logistical issues of implementing a Just‐in‐Time (JIT) manufacturing philosophy. A JIT philosophy promotes reduced cycle times that provide benefits not normally considered in traditional inventory models and presents new concerns for the purchasing and logistics functions. The ramifications are investigated of a JIT implementation using an inventory‐theoretic modelling procedure modified and expanded to incorporate these considerations. The resulting cost comparisons indicate that the lead time variability associated with uncertain transit times in JIT is critical in the determination of order cycle time, order point, safety stock and the holding cost of the safety stock.

A Micro Computer Based Information System for Administering an Academic Program.

Abstract This article describes an information system designed to be used with a micro computer to administer a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) Program. This automated system provides timely and accurate information with which to counsel students and to adminster the program. The authors describe the file design, processing requirements and the system programs which allow for file inquiry, file update, and reporting. The system is managed by the MBA program office and is independent of the university computing system.