An Inventory Model in Humanitarian Logistic: A
Preliminary Study
Rika Ampuh
Hadiguna
Department of
Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Andalas University, Limau
Manis, Padang, 25163 Sumatera Barat
Email: hadiguna05@yahoo.com
Abstract
The main problem in
disaster relief logistics, among others unpredictability of demand in terms of
timing and location, suddenly-occurring demand in very large amounts and short
lead times for a wide variety of supplies, high stakes associated with adequate
and timely delivery, lack of resources such as supply, people, technology,
transportation capacity, and budget. The role of decision support systems are
needed to help decision maker’s better plan in humanitarian logistics
operations. The aim of research is develop an inventory model in humanitarian
logistics namely create a computer model as decision support system. The model
proposed here aims to coordinate the transportation of commodities from major
supply centres to distribution centres in affected areas. The goal is to
minimize delay in providing prioritized commodity. System dynamics methodology
was developed to assist with complex decision making in humanitarian logistics.
Specifically, it was developed to study systems characterized by multiple feedback
loops, uncertainty, and time lags. This paper has been introduced the usage of system
dynamic methodology that has expanded to include social and environmental issues.
As such, it is therefore an appropriate methodology to capture the complexity
of these systems.
Keywords: humanitarian logistics,
inventory, system dynamics, decision support system
