Supply Chain and Logistics
Network Design and Optimization
Covers the strategic design of distribution networks, including facility location, network modeling, and optimization techniques. Course Overview: This course focuses on the strategic planning and optimization of supply chain and distribution networks. Participants will learn to design efficient, cost effective, and responsive networks by considering factors such as facility location, customer service levels, cost trade offs, and risk mitigation.Through real world case studies and modeling exercises, participants will understand how to evaluate network performance, select optimal distribution strategies, and use software tools and analytics to enhance network decision making. By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Understand the strategic role of network design in supply chain performance Evaluate location, transportation, and inventory trade offs in network planning Use optimization models and scenario analysis to assess network decisions Design robust, scalable, and cost effective distribution networks Align network structure with service levels, sustainability, and growth strategies.
Objectives
- Understand the strategic role of network design in supply chains.
- Evaluate facility location using modeling and optimization tools.
- Optimize inventory flow and positioning across the network.
- Conduct risk, sensitivity, and resilience planning for disruptions.
- Integrate sustainability and reverse logistics into network strategy.
- Design adaptable, future-proof supply chain networks.
Target audience
- Logistics Managers
- Supply Chain Planners
- Distribution Network Designers
- Operations Analysts
- Strategic Planning Professionals
- Professionals involved in expansion or footprint redesign projects
Program outline
A clear structure for the learning journey.
Program outline
Outline points are grouped in one designed block instead of being treated as separate module cards.
Module 1: Introduction to Network Design
The role of network design in supply chain strategy
Components of a supply chain network (plants, warehouses, customers, suppliers)
Cost, service, and risk trade-offs
Case examples of network decisions in global companies
Module 2: Facility Location Strategy
Factors influencing site selection (market, labor, infrastructure, risk)
Center of gravity and location allocation models
Greenfield analysis and brownfield optimization
Regional, national, and global facility footprint planning
Module 3: Network Modeling and Optimization Tools
Overview of modeling approaches (heuristics, linear programming, simulation)
Excel-based modeling techniques
Introduction to network design tools (Llamasoft, AnyLogic, Supply Chain Guru, etc.)
Scenario development: baseline, expansion, cost reduction, resilience
Module 4: Multi-Echelon Inventory and Flow Optimization
Balancing inventory across nodes in the network
Deciding between centralized vs. decentralized networks
Inventory positioning for responsiveness and risk
Product flow paths and cost-to-serve optimization
Module 5: Sensitivity, Risk, and Resilience Planning
Conducting sensitivity analysis on demand, cost, and capacity
Stress testing the network under disruption scenarios
Designing redundancy and flexibility into networks
Strategies for agile and resilient network structures
Module 6: Sustainability and Future-Proofing the Network
Incorporating ESG goals and carbon footprint reduction
Reverse logistics and closed-loop network considerations
Adapting the network for omnichannel and digital demands
Continuous network design and real-time adaptation
Materials provided
- â—‹ Slides used during the sessions
- â—‹ Group activities and exercises
- â—‹ Worksheets and templates
- â—‹ Case studies relevant to the course
- â—‹ 4D Certificate of Completion issued by The Fourth Dimension Training & Consultancy
- â—‹ Post-course support for technical queries and guidance
Training Options
Programs can be delivered in-house, online, or in a blended format depending on your team's schedule, location, and learning objectives. When an external certificate or exam is included, certification rules and fees remain under the relevant awarding body's policies, while 4D provides the training and preparation support.
Why choose 4D
At The Fourth Dimension Training & Consultancy, we don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Each course we offer is carefully tailored to meet the unique goals, industry challenges, and team dynamics of your organization. Our expert trainers bring decades of hands-on experience and guide participants using real-world case studies, practical tools, and interactive methods. This ensures not only theoretical understanding but also direct relevance to the day-to-day work of your employees. We collaborate closely with your team to adjust content, language, and examples so that the training resonates deeply and delivers lasting impact.
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