Browsing by Author "Balakrishnan, Jaydeep"
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- ItemOpen AccessAn Inventory Model For Multi-Echelon Supply Chains With Price- and Inventory-Level-Dependent Demand(2015-04-27) Forootan, Zaman; Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Enns, Silvanus TheodoreGiven the nature of highly competitive markets, most supply chains try to optimize their processes by reducing costs and increasing customer satisfactions. Hence, managers attempt to closely follow changes in customers’ buying behaviour relative to product price and availability. Such behaviour directly affects the inventory management of a supply chain since the demand patterns change. This research targets decision making for pricing and replenishing a product, i.e. price, reorder point, and order quantity, to benefit the overall supply chain. An inventory model for a multi-echelon supply chain with price- and inventory level- sensitive demand is developed in this research in a progressive manner. First, the inventory system of a retailer facing a price and inventory level dependant demand function is studied. The results of the analytical model in this section answer the questions related to the order quantity, and the magnitude and timing of price changes in order to maximize the profit for the retailer. Second, the inventory system for a supply chain consisting of a retailer and a manufacturer with a price-dependent demand is analyzed both analytically and using discrete-event simulation-optimization. The results of these analyses address the benefits of cooperation in pricing and replenishment decisions. This section also answers the questions related to the retailers order quantity, the production quantity of the manufacturer, and the price level. Finally, an inventory system of a supply chain including a retailer, a distribution centre and a manufacturer is analyzed. Simulation-optimization is used to find the optimal strategy for the joint pricing and replenishment problem. The results of this last section provide answers as to the timing and quantity of the orders, the pricing, and how the ordering policy is affected. This research also explores the differences in pricing and replenishment policies for different demand functions and answers the question of whether it is worthwhile, considering the computational complications, to contemplate price- and stock- dependency of demands while coordinating supply chains. In this research an empirical research method is also used to evaluate the assumptions of price- and inventory level- dependency of demand for different products available in a grocery store. The results of this thesis support the proposition that collaborations in inventory management decision-makings benefit the whole supply chain, even if all the firms do not participate in collaboration. It also supports investigating the price- and inventory level- dependency of demand in order to maximize the profits for the supply chain.
- ItemOpen AccessAn Analysis of Factors affecting Cross Docking Operations(Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), 2010) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Yang, Kum Khiong; Cheng, Chun HungUsing a simulation model of a cross dock, we examine the impacts of various options on moving freight between inbound and outbound trailers. The decisions examined include direct versus indirect handling of pallets, number of open receiving doors, door layout, number of forklifts, size of cross dock and freight mix. This study provides useful insights into handling freight in a cross dock.
- ItemOpen AccessAn analysis of innovation in oil & gas projects(Sage Journals, 2018-08-22) Rahimi, Mahmood; Kenworthy, Thomas P.; Balakrishnan, JaydeepWe examine the effects of predictors from the firm, project, and individual levels on innovative behavior within oil and gas projects. The theory and propositions tested in this study stem from extant work on (1) innovation in poor performance conditions and (2) the availability of slack resources. The research findings revealed that innovative behaviors were present regardless of size, type, and project performance level. Further, it appears that the relationship between slack and innovation depends on when the innovation is introduced (i.e., when project performance is ahead of, or behind, a plan). Finally, the existence of innovation in (1) under-performing projects did not appear to exert any influence on project outcome, and (2) over-performing projects appeared to exert a negative influence on project outcome.
- ItemOpen AccessAnalysis of Oil and Gas Projects-With Focus on SAGD Projects(2016) Kumar, Jatinder; Jergeas, George; Sadeghpour, Farnaz; Al-Hussein, Mohamed; Achari, Gopal; Ruwanpura, Janaka; Balakrishnan, JaydeepAlberta projects have experienced cost growth, schedule growth and low productivity, necessitating a need to measure and compare project performance and productivity of oil and gas projects. There is limited research on the project performance of Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) projects. The primary purpose of this research was to quantitatively assess the project performance of oil and gas projects in Alberta with special focus on SAGD projects. The quantitative assessments included the project performance and productivity analysis for location of projects (Alberta and U.S. projects), different time periods (Phase 1: 2006-2009 vs. Phase 2: 2010-2014), and different types of projects (pipeline and SAGD projects), and examination of the relationship between project execution strategies and project performance. SAGD projects were analyzed separately, and industry experts were interviewed to understand industry perspective on cost and schedule performance, risks and lessons learned on SAGD projects. During the research, 73 oil and gas projects from Alberta were analyzed. Data were collected using the Construction Owners Association of Alberta (COAA)-PAS. Statistical tools were used to analyze project performance and to assess the impact of project execution strategies on project performance. Different trends have been observed between Phase 1: 2006-2009 and Phase 2: 2010-2014. The comparison of project performance and productivity directed industry to where efforts could be made for continuous improvement. Data from 18 SAGD projects were analyzed to develop characteristics of SAGD projects. The project performance, which includes growth factors, phase duration factors, phase cost factors, equipment ratios, and engineering and construction productivity metrics that could have practical applications for estimating and project performance benchmarking is listed in tabular form. Interviews from industry experts provided definition of capacity, 52 new metrics, and a list of major risks and lessons learned during the SAGD project execution. This research improved the industry understanding of challenges and risks faced on SAGD projects. This research also observed the trends and comparison of project performance, engineering and construction productivity, which identified the areas for continuous improvement. This also concludes that there is room for further improvement in project and productivity performance for oil and gas projects in Alberta.
- ItemOpen AccessThe Application of Single-Pass Heuristics for U-Lines(Elsevier, 2009) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Cheng, Chun-Hung; Ho, Kin-Chuen; Yang, Kum KhiongU-lines have been adopted in many manufacturing settings as part of JIT implementation. In this paper, we examine the applicability of existing straight-line heuristics for obtaining a balance on a U-line. We modify 13 single-pass heuristics and study the effectiveness of various heuristics under different problem conditions. An extensive computational study is carried out to help identify the best heuristics. In addition, we compare recent U-line procedures with a single-pass heuristic using some literature problems. Based on a single-pass heuristic, we compare the configurations of a straight- and U-line.
- ItemOpen AccessApplying a decision support system tool to the integrated design and operation of a landfill(2008) Ohman, Klas V.H.; Hettiaratchi, J. Patrick A.; Balakrishnan, JaydeepUp until about the mid-1970's, landfills were still treated as garbage dumps even in some major centers throughout North America, and the rest of the world (Bolton, 1995). Over the last fifteen years, a significant shift towards a more sophisticated and technologically applied approach to landfill design and operation has occurred. Landfilling of solid waste has taken on a new complexity with terms such as bio-reactor being used to describe new methods of managing solid waste, while at the same time focusing on sustainable methods to handle the organics portion of the waste stream and its subsequent reuse as compost or other environmentally friendly material. (Reinhart and Townsend, 1998). However, as new and more sophisticated methods are developed to address sustainable landfilling practices, it is also becoming apparent that the infrastructure required to design, build, operate, and maintain these new technologies is also becoming more challenging. Notwithstanding the fact that the more space the infrastructure consumes within a landfill, the less space there is for landfilling, and consequently, reduced capacity for landfill. In that light, it is evident that, as in other areas of the waste management field, be it solid waste collection, recycling, or facility siting, applying operational research modeling tools to this area is not only possible, but necessary. The application of operational research tools to optimize landfill design and operational components is in its infancy. Although these tools have been used to help address environmental situations for some time, including waste management systems, applying them in an integrated fashion yto the landfill design and operations area is quite a new application. These management tools have the ability to assist decision makers with optimizing landfill capacity, minimizing human health and environmental issues related to worksite safety, traffic flow issues, as well as air and ground water contamination, and address cash flow issues related to revenue and profitability. In addition, these same tools can help address socio-political and other intangible public perception concerns that are difficult to quantify. A commercial software program based on the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) has been utilized in conjunction with Excels Monte Carlo simulation program to create an integrated decision making tool utilizing landfill design and operating parameters. A sensitivity analysis of the AHP model under nine different landfill scenarios is described and discussed. As well, in conjunction with Excel's monte carlo simulation, the model is applied to a specific case study, using design and operating parameters for a specific convertional landfill scenario. The model is used to predict future financial landfill scenarios, the impact changes to specific parameters have on the landfills revenue, costs, and profits. The benefit of parameter prioritizing, is not only in the integration aspect of landfill design and operations in a way that impacts bottom line of operating a landfill. This specific model also provides planning flexibility by introducing "what if' scenarios that can be produced modeled quite easily, and providing quick results.
- ItemOpen AccessApplying Quality Function Deployment in Food Safety Management(Emerald, 2010) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Sweet, Tim; Robertson, Brad; MacFarlane, Jennifer; Karim, SarahStructured Abstract: Purpose of this paper This paper reports on a case study conducted to help plan a rollout process for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) type food safety policies at a frozen pie facility in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Design/methodology/approach Existing company policies were prioritized using a Quality Function Deployment tool, which quantified the qualitative material in the original manual based on a number of developed criteria. Interrelations between the different required tasks were also quantified to facilitate effective implementation. Findings The use of Quality Function Deployment was shown to be useful in speeding up the implementation of food safety policies in the facility Practical implications (if applicable) Quality Function Deployment, originally from new product design, proved a useful one when applied to HACCP implementation. What is original/value of paper. This paper discusses the use of product development tools to facilitate the effective introduction of HACCP like procedures. Thus it will be of use to academics and practitioners interested in HACCP implementation.
- ItemOpen AccessBullwhip effect in the oil and gas supply chain : a multi-case study(Elsevier, 2019-11) Zhu, Tianyuan; Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; da Silveira, Giovani J. C.The bullwhip effect has been extensively studied in the retail, wholesale and manufacturing industries. However, it has been rarely explored in the context of resource extraction industries such as oil and gas, despite their economic impact and distinct features. This paper investigates the factors that impact the bullwhip effect in the oil and gas supply chain using case study evidence from six companies in North America, which cover refining and marketing, exploration and production, integrated oil and gas, and drilling. For each type of company studied, the operational causes of the bullwhip effect proposed in the literature and other factors of influence are examined. The findings indicate that the existing theories of the bullwhip effect have limitations in explaining the phenomenon in the oil and gas industry. Information sharing, a widely advocated countermeasure of the bullwhip effect may not be relevant in the integrated oil and gas company. Regarding the factors that drive or mitigate the bullwhip effect in different types of companies in the oil and gas supply chain, seven propositions are developed and several additional findings are obtained. All of these results enable better understandings of the bullwhip effect in academia, oil and gas organisations and related industries, and may provide guidance for potential countermeasures in practice.
- ItemOpen AccessCompensation-based incentives, ERP, and delivery performance: analysis from production and improvement perspectives(Emerald, 2013) da Silveira, Giovani J. C.; Snider, Brent; Balakrishnan, JaydeepPurpose – This research investigates the role of compensation-based incentives in relationships between Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) usage and delivery performance in manufacturing. Design/methodology/approach – We carry out two studies exploring links between ERP, incentives, and performance from alternative perspectives: (i) of incentives tied to regular production activities, and their relationship with delivery performance advantage over competitors, and (ii) of incentives tied to improvement activities, and their relationship with delivery performance improvements. Statistical analysis is carried out on data from 698 metal working manufacturers from 22 countries, giving a broad cross sectional view of a global industry. Findings – The studies indicate that ERP usage relates positively with both delivery advantage and delivery improvements. Furthermore, incentives tied to improvement initiatives may explain delivery improvements both directly and as moderators in the relationship between ERP and performance. Research implications – The results suggest that ERP adoption can be framed as a principal-agency phenomenon where performance outcomes are partially influenced by incentives. Practical implications – The results imply that incentives tied to improvement initiatives may foster employee engagement with the new ERP, leading to stronger delivery performance benefits. Originality/value – To the best of our knowledge, this is the first research to explore ERP usage as a principal-agency problem, and to analyse its relationships with incentives under alternative performance perspectives. The results may significantly contribute to the knowledge of ERP-performance relationships and the role of incentives.
- ItemOpen AccessCritical Chain Analysis Using Project Management Software(APICS, 2009) Balakrishnan, JaydeepPreviously in this journal, Umble and Umble (2000) discussed Goldratt’s “critical chain” (Goldratt 1997) for project scheduling. In this article, we show that explicitly defining the critical chain in a resource constrained project schedule will help avoid errors in slack calculation. Because these slacks can help identify the feeding buffers in critical chain analysis and prepare the backward schedules for the activities, it is important to identify them correctly.
- ItemOpen AccessDecision support optimization model for railcar storage(2007) Espey, Renae Lorelei; Balakrishnan, Jaydeep
- ItemOpen AccessDevelopment of a Landfill Model to Prioritize Design and Operating Objectives(Springer, 2007) Ohman, K. V. H.; Hettiaratchi, J. P. A.; Ruwanpura, J.; Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Achari, G.
- ItemOpen AccessDPLP Balakrishnan Dataset(2008-08-01T19:35:48Z) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep
- ItemOpen AccessDynamic cellular manufacturing under multi period planning horizons(Emerald, 2005) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Cheng, Chun Hung
- ItemOpen AccessDynamic Layout Algorithms : A State-of-the-art Survey(Elsevier, 1998) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Cheng, Chun Hung
- ItemOpen AccessThe Dynamic Plant Layout Problem: Incorporating Rolling Horizons and Forecast Uncertainty(Elsevier, 2009) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Cheng, Chun Hung
- ItemOpen AccessE-retailer return policies and their relationship with operations strategy priorities and market performance(2018-12-13) Southin, Nancy Elaine; da Silveira, Giovani J.C.; Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Sabouri, AlirezaReturn policies are the method by which customers are informed of the rules around returning purchased products. Extant research has focused primarily on how firms can create return policies that encourage customer purchase. While this focus on demand attempts to turn a potential negative in the customer’s mind into a positive, the lack of consideration of the firm perspective in the creation and impact of return policies is noticeable. This dissertation aims to answer the question: How is the operations functional area of a firm reflected in the content of return policies and how do return policies impact firm performance? It explores this question in three studies by focusing on the under-explored operational influence on firm return policies. Using content analysis of e-retailer return policies, this dissertation suggests that return policy content is influenced by the operations function of the firm and that rather than a sales generator, return policies exist to reduce transaction risk and minimize transaction costs that exist in the business-to-consumer environment. The influence of firm operations of the firm are identified in paper two, suggesting that the operations strategy priorities of the firm influence the content of return policies. Finally, in paper three, I suggest a moderating role for return policies on customer satisfaction which differs from the current research focus on direct effects. Findings from this study suggest that that the process for returning products has a negative moderating influence on the relationship between pre-purchase expectation and post-purchase satisfaction. This suggests that return policies are not considered by customers in isolation but instead are part of a set of service options related to the logistics service offerings of the firm.
- ItemOpen AccessEnterprise resource planning implementations at small and medium sized enterprises: influential factors(2004) Snider, Brent Richard; Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Silveira, Giovanida
- ItemOpen AccessERP implementation at SMEs: analysis of five Canadian cases(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2009) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Snider, Brent; Silveira, Giovani J.C. daAbstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the critical success factors (CSFs) of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system implementation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach – Five case studies of Canadian SMEs were conducted. They included interviewing individuals from five roles at each organization and gathering project documents. Following an evaluation of each project's success (within-case analysis), cross-case analysis was conducted to elicit influential and distinctive factors. Findings – Factors were identified that appeared to explain variation between successful and unsuccessful implementations at SMEs, besides factors that appeared to be innovative or counter-intuitive in light of the established literature. Research limitations/implications – The study reinforces the need for more research that is focused on SMEs. All cases were of Canadian SMEs with either a manufacturing or distribution focus, potentially limiting the generalizability of findings to other industries or countries. Practical implications – By identifying relevant CSFs for SMEs, managers can better prioritize implementation efforts and resources to maximize success of ERP implementations. Originality/value – The paper appears to be one of the first studies to focus on the CSFs of ERP implementation at SMEs.
- ItemOpen AccessFACOPT: A User Friendly FACility Layout OPTimization System(Elsevier, 2003) Balakrishnan, Jaydeep; Cheng, Chun Hung; Wong, Kam-Fai
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