Proposals for more Effective Distribution Procedures

  • S.A. Gill

Student thesis: Master's ThesisMaster of Philosophy

Abstract

The physical distribution management function of Vono Ltd.
has been investigated, the main conclusions being that the
function was ill-defined and data bases from which control could
be exercised were not available.
Procedures were installed to monitor vehicle operations
and to compare the actual carriage charges with the budgeted
ones.
Definite regional tastes in upholstery and bedding were
indicated, which contradicted with the Company's beliefs. The
service provided by the Company was also shown to be worse than
believed, and this was shown to not improve with order processing
changes.
Linear programming and multiple correlation and regression
techniques were applied to the load building model problem with
no success. A model was developed which was shown to be useful
and the recalculation of all budgeted carriage allowances was
accepted by the Company.
Alternative forms of transport were shown to be capable of
reducing the actual carriage charges by over 8%. This saving
relied partly on more efficient warehousing. Investigations
into the warehousing function led to proposals for improved stock
recording and control and also assisted in re-siting the
warehouse within the Tipton factory.
Stock recording and control of finished products was shown
to be very poor. A simulation program was developed to indicate
to the management the interaction of production and inventory
decisions for bedding.
Attempts at producing a theoretical transport cost model
were only partially successful because of the simplyfying
assumptions.
Towards the end of the research programme it became evident
that the company appreciated the complex nature of physical
distribution management.
Date of Award1973
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • Aston University

Keywords

  • proposals
  • effective
  • distribution
  • procedures

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