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.
Course Objectives:
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
Target Audience:
○ Logistics Managers
○ Supply Chain Planners
○ Distribution Network Designers
○ Operations Analysts
○ Strategic Planning Professionals
○ Professionals involved in expansion or footprint redesign projects
Course Delivery Method:
○ Instructor-led sessions (in-person or virtual)
○ Case studies and industry benchmarks
○ Hands-on modeling using Excel and network design tools
○ Workshops on scenario planning and trade-off analysis
○ Group projects and strategic presentations
○ Short quizzes and model-based exercises
Course Outlines
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
Would you like this course transformed into a PowerPoint, PDF guide, or facilitator manual? I can also add case study examples, tools comparison charts, or quizzes if needed.