The design of an agent for modelling supply chain network dynamics

摘要: A useful insight into managerial decision making can be found from simulation of business systems, but existing work on supply chain behaviour has largely considered non-competitive chains. Where competitive agents have been examined, they generally had a simple structure and used for fundamental examination stability equilibria rather than providing practical guidance to managers. In this paper, new agent the study network dynamics is proposed. The novel features include ability select between competing vendors, distribute orders preferentially among many customers, manage production inventory, determine price based behaviour. related models sufficient details are provided allow implementation. tested demonstrate that it recreates main results modelling management literature dynamics. brief exploration given confirm proposed respond competition. overall profitability maximised when businesses operate collectively. It possible an individual achieve higher profits by adopting more stance, consequence reduced. will use broad range studies long-run effect decisions their suppliers customers.