International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences (IRSPAS)
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Item Optimization approaches for inventory management in Blood Supply Chains: A systematic review of literature(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Gunawardana, K. D. R.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Nanayakkara, L. D. J. F.Blood Supply Chain Management is highly critical, as ensuring the availability of the right blood type, at the right place, in the right quantity, at the right time is a matter of life and death. Unlike other products, there is no substitute to human blood. Therefore, there is an increasing need of wisely managing this invaluable resource. Studies show that blood availability in countries need to be increased in order to meet the demands of ageing populations. Meanwhile, the discard rate of blood collections has an impact on the people’s attitude towards the blood system of the country and the first-time donor return rate. The overall objective of this study is to investigate the optimization approaches towards inventory management aspect in blood supply chains. A systematic review of literature has been carried out to investigate different optimization approaches and management concepts towards blood inventory optimization while maximizing the service levels and minimizing discard rates. Firstly, articles were selected through a web search based on the keywords of the study domain in order to ensure the relevance to the study. Further, articles published between 2000 and 2019 were considered ensuring novelty of findings. Keywords such as “inventory management”, “supply chain”, “optimization”, “simulation” and “blood” were used. In the process of reviewing literature, initially 43 studies were analysed through the keywords search and 15 papers were selected which are directly related with the area of the study. Studies revealed that perishable and substitution inventory management systems with stochastic demands are highly complex and scarcely represented in the literature. The studies further indicated that simulation could be used as a tool to determine optimal inventory policies accounting for perishability and substitution. A framework was developed summarizing management concepts and optimization techniques used in blood inventory management. This framework can be used to identify potential research areas that are available in this arena and as a guidance for future researchers who are willing to study in this field. As a further research, it is suggested to explore the behaviour of inventory management practices of multi-product, multi-echelon and perishable supply chains with highly uncertain demand and supplyItem Vehicle routing optimization in Sri Lankan megacity logistics context(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Warnakulasuriya, M. M.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Niwunhella, D. H. H.; Nanayakkara, L. D. J. F.Sri Lanka has been making its way to develop its metropolitan city, Colombo, as a megacity. Transportation is one of the basic components to consider in planning any city emerging as megacities. City logistics function is a major factor which influences the economy and the social activities of a country. In megacity logistics, the growth in the volume of freight traffic and the aim to optimize the logistics activities have led research in recent years. According to the National Transport Report for year 2017, Port of Colombo handled 651,968 of Imports (TEUs) alone in year 2016. The majority of the destinations of this freight is Colombo and its suburbs. Considering the growing demands, the Western Region Megapolis Master Plan has been developed to cater systematic inland freight transportation in Colombo and suburbs. Therefore, it is important to focus on optimizing the urban transport network as well as the freight transport which has been given insignificant attention to date. Routing of flows and scheduling of deliveries are the two main factors to be considered in optimizing freight transport on which a lot of opportunities lie upon. Routing of flows is the pattern of flow at different spatial scales and scheduling of deliveries determines the flow of freight traffic through time windows. This study investigates the impact of city logistics for the road network in Sri Lanka, considering the main land transport corridors to map the freight flows as identified in the Megapolis Master Plan – Sri Lanka. This is done through a systematic data collection from a company handling freights within Colombo to match the Sri Lankan city logistic scenario about the freight transport regarding the units that are transported, and travel times taken for the considered destinations from the depot where freights are consolidated before released into the road network. It also identifies main city destinations around Colombo, the freight flows and freight volumes (in TEUs) in determining the impact of it for the road network. Thereby, this study will depict a vehicle routing optimization model to optimize the freight outflow function, minimizing the time taken. This is conducted through a simulation-based approach using the Supply Chain Guru simulation and modelling software, which is tested with the data collected. This vehicle routing simulation will provide platform for improved operation with identified demands to minimize the freight traffic and decision making in terms of the road network utilization for future demandsItem Employee competencies development framework for industry 4.0 adaptation in the healthcare sector(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Weerasinghe, W. P. T. D.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Nanayakkara, L. D. J. F.Item Procurement optimization with Industry 4.0 in ERP based Sri Lankan apparel industry: a systematic review of literature(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Chandrasekara, H. A. S. Y.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Wickramarachchi, A. P. R.Apparel industry is the Sri Lanka’s largest export industry and the highest net foreign exchange earner since 1992. It Provides wide range of clothing solutions for renowned international brands. Therefore, satisfying both customers and suppliers is a mandatory requirement in apparel industry. To survive in the market and acquire competitive edge, industries need to invest in advanced technology. However, most companies fail due to poor integration of technology in their supply chain. The concept of Procurement 4.0 has emerged to optimize supply chain performance developing new value propositions and meeting new business needs. It is the integration of Industry 4.0 concepts in procurement. To adapt these new technologies in an enterprise, a strong ERP system which can act as a platform for integration is required. Although Industry 4.0 concepts have been studied in different industrial contexts, a limited number of researches have been conducted on the use of emerging technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Big data and Cognitive analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cloud technologies etc. in relation procurement while more existing researchers have focused on e-procurement. Therefore, this study explores how the ERP based apparel industry can optimize their procurement process with the emerging procurement technologies from Industry 4.0. In this study, a systematic review of literature was conducted based on the keyword-based search and content analysis, and 20 articles were selected out of 50 articles depending on the relevance to the major areas of study. Based on the findings, a framework was developed incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies that can be used in each step of the procurement process and their impact on procurement performance have been identified. In conclusion, this research provides a framework for implementing technology-based procurement practices. Apparel manufacturers can use the developed framework as a guideline to identify the current state of technology implementation in procurement process and to identify the next potential steps towards procurement 4.0. Further, the results of the study could be generalized and applied to any manufacturing industry. Future researches can be carried out to validate this model through a case study approachItem Readiness assessment model for Sri Lankan apparel industry: Assess current readiness and strategize Industry 4.0 journey(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Lakmali, G. D. E.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Nanayakkara, J.Sri Lankan apparel industry is the most significant and driving contributor to the country’s economy by constituting a large portion of GDP. It has achieved rapid growth rates over the past four decades. In the highly competitive apparel world, manufacturers search solutions for future problems such as worker inadequacy to minimize human intervention to increase productivity. Therefore, there is a need for apparel manufacturers to align value chain operations with the latest technologies. After the first three industrial revolutions, the world is now experiencing the fourth industrial revolution that integrates emerging digital technologies; cyber-physical systems, Internet of Things, big data, simulation, cloud computing and augmented reality. Industry 4.0 enhances process functions by providing real-time visibility for smooth production flow. As an example, machine learning is capable of monitoring critical factors such as machine life to predict the frequency of machine replacement in factories. Before aligning with Industry 4.0, there is an urgent need for assisting companies to improve their capabilities in a standardized, purposeful and sustainable way. Current literature mentions applications of industry 4.0 in the apparel industry but has not assessed readiness to adapt. This research assesses the current readiness of the Sri Lankan apparel industry to adapt industry 4.0 technologies by developing a readiness assessment model based on a systematic review of literature. Eighty-three articles were found with keywords; Industry 4.0 readiness assessment model, cyber-physical system readiness, apparel industry, etc. Forty-six studies were filtered based on relevance and ten existing readiness assessment models were identified. A set of assessment criteria were recognized as compatible with the literature, and the strengths and weaknesses of each readiness model were evaluated systematically. Interviews with industry experts were conducted in order to identify value chain processes in Sri Lankan context. The readiness assessment model comprises readiness dimensions and minimum requirements under each level. The outcome of this study will help industry practitioners in apparel sector to assess the current maturity level and move up the technology ladder while maximizing operational performance. Further, it is suggested to validate this model in Sri Lankan context through a case study approach.Item A lean maturity assessment model to improve warehouse operations for the 3PL industry in Sri Lanka(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Gamini, G. L. M.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Wickramarachchi, R.Warehousing plays an important role in the logistics sector in order to facilitate economic and business benefits for both parties including customer and the service provider. 3PL (third-party logistics) service providers are specialized in providing end-to-end logistics solutions including warehousing, transportation and distribution. Efficient warehouse operations can yield a win-win situation for both parties. Lean management has become a well-accepted and most commonly used approach in identifying waste and non-value-added activities in warehousing industry. However, majority of the 3PL service providers in Sri Lanka have not incorporated those practices into their operations mainly due to lack of domain knowledge. Maturity assessment models can be used as a self-assessment tool and are useful for the company to assess the current stage of lean implementation. It guides the company to set benchmarks and enhance the overall productivity of the operation. Although there are many maturity assessment models developed focusing on various domains such as software development and project management, no such work has been carried out for the field of 3PL warehouse operations in relation to application of Lean management practices. In this research, the authors have developed a lean maturity assessment model to assess the level of lean maturity applicable for the 3PL warehouse operations. A systematic review of literature was conducted by referring 25 research articles. Existing maturity models developed for other applications and lean warehouse practices were also studied in order to develop a suitable maturity model. A pilot study also was carried out with a 3PL provider, in order to study on the practical aspect of lean implementation. Based on these, a Lean maturity assessment model which consists of stages providing a clear roadmap to a company was developed. The results of the study will lead the relevant 3PL service provider to identify the level they are existing and decide the strategy they need to implement in order to improve warehouse efficiency. It is recommended to validate this model through multiple case studies and also the reviews of experts in 3PL warehouses as further research areaItem Application of industry 4.0 concepts to optimise workforce performance in human resource processes: context of Sri Lankan apparel industry(Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, 2018 Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2018) Weerasekara, M. M.; Wickramarachchi, R.; Vidanagamachchi, K.To cope with the new technologies driven by the fourth industrial revolution such as Cloud based systems, Internet of Things, Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, skill development is vital in order to enhance the performance of the workforce. Advancement of the technology will affect disruptively for all organisational functions including human resource. There is a threat that humans will be replaced by advanced technological systems in the near future. It will badly affect all areas of operations including human resources, if organisations fail to absorb the technology. Even though these technologies have been widely used in many countries, developing countries such as Sri Lanka are far behind. This paper focuses on how to improve the performance of the employees by developing necessary skills, using various technologies included in Industry 4.0. Previous researchers have mentioned about how industry 4.0 applications disrupt human resource but not how to fulfil those gaps. Sri Lankan apparel industry has been identified as one of the key industries to implement these concepts to measure the workforce performance since it involves both human and machinery in its processes. By introducing advanced technologies to areas such as recruitment, talent on-boarding and off-boarding, training and development, both time and cost for unnecessary processes can be reduced while increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the employees. Initial data collection has been conducted through two questionnaires based on a sample of 30 individuals from each level which are above executive and below executive from human resource departments. Five apparel firms were chosen to collect the data as a quantitative approach. Questionnaire was developed to discover the relationship between variables such as industry 4.0 application, skill development, job satisfaction and job performance to check how they intervene with enhancing performance. Data analysis was done through structural equation modelling using AMOS supporting software. The study suggests ways to optimise skills and satisfaction level of workforce performance using industry 4.0 applications with smart human resource concepts. In addition, an innovative model will be introduced to enable apparel industry to enhance the process of human resource development using technologies through industry 4.0 application.Item Improving downstream logistics performance in Sri Lankan agricultural supply chain through collaborative digital logistics(Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, 2018 Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2018) Sarathchandra, K.; Vidanagamachchi, K.Global agricultural production is barely sufficient to appease the hunger of the world population. Greater part of agricultural production gets spoiled on the way to the consumer. As a consequence, agricultural logistics has gained much consideration in order to ensure that the agricultural products reach the consumer with better quality. Nowadays consumers are demanding more on the food quality and the sustainability, hence the necessity of redesigning agricultural supply chain networks and implementing best practices in place is emphasized. Thus having properly managed storage facilities and vehicles, real time access to information regarding demand, supply, weather conditions and price fluctuations, proper handling of surplus and value addition is crucial. Consequently, reengineering the agricultural processes by deploying information technology has emerged. Although the use of sophisticated new digital technologies in logistics is important to enhance the performance, it is difficult for small farmers, retailers, wholesalers, etc., to invest on these new-fangled technologies. It’s proven that collaboration is a strategic decision which aids in superior supply chain performance and is a key to achieve logistical excellence. Accordingly, this study focuses on the effect of supply chain collaboration in implementing digital logistics in less sophisticated supply chains such as Sri Lankan agricultural supply chain in order to achieve high downstream logistics performance. In relation to the results of this scrutiny, digitized logistics in Sri Lankan agricultural supply chain is in the elementary stage and inadequate knowledge, skills and investments are the major restrictions for technology adoption. The methodology adopted in this research was mixed method approach which involved data collection through questionnaire surveys using stake holders of agricultural supply chain and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analysis was conducted to discover the relationship between variables and was done through regression analysis using SPSS software and qualitative analysis was done to identify the factors affecting collaborative digital logistics and the downstream logistics performance of agricultural supply chains through thematic analysis. The study suggests to align consumer and stakeholder expectations through collaborative digitization in order to improve agricultural downstream logistics performance. The decision model and the heuristics presented through this paper will help the agricultural supply chain stakeholders in digitizing their logistics to meet consumer expectations and to maximize their profits.