Network Design & Optimization

[noirsz]

Hi,

Is there somebody who works as Network Design & Optimization position?

Regards,

Sz.

[Rob O'Byrne]

Hi,

I have been involved in network design for many years. Did you have a question?

[noirsz]

Hi,

What strengths should have a Network Design and Optimization manager? In additional experience in Logistics.
You have experience in this so I am sure you will know the answer.

Sz.

[Rob O'Byrne]

This is usually what I advise to my customers who might be wanting to hire someone to do network optimisation. I assume it wil also involve using a specialist modelling tool


Many companies adopt the approach of selecting a network designer based on their IT abilities. Whilst this is important, it is only one aspect. It should be remembered that the modelling software is merely a tool, and it is the skills of the software ‘driver’ that really provide the quality of the outcome. With this in mind, the software user would generally require the following skills/experience:

1. Highly competent PC skills. Advanced + user of MS Exel, MS Access and SQL Server.
2. Sound financial analysis ability. Might be a qualified accountant or similar.
3. Sound general business understanding. So as to appreciate the impacts of modelled scenarios.
4. Excellent Supply Chain management understanding, particularly the cost/service trade offs, transport rate structures, DC cost structures and product handling characteristics.
5. A good communicator and team player, so as to gain the confidence and input of key stakeholders in the company.
6. Beneficial to have had some supply chain network design experience.

It is often the case that the trained and experienced user either leaves the company, or moves to another role. It is important therefore to maintain more than one competent user.


Does this help?

[noirsz]

Sure, this helps lots. Thank you.

Do you have any experience on LogicNet tool?

Actually I want to apply a new position as NDO Mgr, but first I want to be sure this position is really good for me.

[Rob O'Byrne]

Sorry, no direct experience on that one. Though most network optimisation tools that I have seen (rather like route scheduling tools), tend to be very similar in the way they operate. So if you have experience of one tool, it is usually not too hard to learn/convert to, another.

[noirsz]

Actually it's just a tool, can't be smarter than me, but can save more money than me.

[SupplyChainQuant]

Noirsz,

My experience with Logicnet is that it is a well developed set of applications. They use a defined methodology and have fairly solid training and supporting documentation.

That being said, I've also found that the trade offs are in flexibility and transition within thier applications. With Logicnet there would be 3 seperate tools you would have to use and transition between to complete the analytical projects I tend to work on.

One of the tools I currently use (not Logicnet) has more flexiblity and transitions the model types within one application. The biggest trade off for most is that the software is so flexible you need to ensure you have thought through problem and the entire model strategy thoroughly. It's not a push button/pre-defined template type of tool.

And - as always, tools should not subsititute thought!

Hope this helps!