Supply Chain Optimization

The Supply Chain Optimization Work Stream worked to develop the data and a predictive model to help improve the efficiency of USAID/BHA supply chain operations throughout Phase III.

The Supply Chain Optimization Work Stream:

Over Phase III,

  • Has produced a report that described in great detail the state of the BHA operating system from 2011-2016.
    • A large amount of historical data was prepared by this work stream on procurement, storage, and delivery of key commodities, and is now all available to USAID in a usable and user-friendly format.
  • Highlighted the opportunities for changes in protocols and strategic investments that had the potential to improve overall supply chain effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Developed a supply chain optimization prototype model with particular focus on Ethiopia based on these data, and on key findings related to institutional requirements and protocols, among others.
  • Developed the demonstration economic optimization tool to examine several fundamental BHA policy questions, such as the impacts on effectiveness and efficiency of extending the decision time horizon of BHA activities.

This year, the aim is to:

  • Further develop the demonstration economic optimization model and use it to address a series of important policy questions, such, for example, how to enhance the efficiency of supply chain management via investments in new port facilities and/or warehouses.
    • More specifically, the model will be expanded to include all major aspects of the global supply chain for selected USAID food aid products.  In addition, the model will be modified to allow for the inclusion of demand uncertainty and unforeseen (sudden-onset) food aid demand.
  • Supply chain optimization results, including key findings from additional data analyses, model innovations, and scenario analyses will be reported.
    • Manuscripts will be prepared and submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and key results will be summarized and presented at conferences and other venues, when possible.
  • The data and the demonstration model will be conveyed to USAID for further development and use in managing procurements and supply chain operations. 

Resources

Questions about this work stream?

Contact Principal Investigator, patrick.webb@tufts.edu.