Integrated Modeling for Location Analysis

Delivery of products and services relies on well-managed operations. In designing large-scaled supply chain and service systems, locations of key facilities are critical decisions as these facilities form the backbone of operations of these systems. Integrated Modeling for Location Analysis develops analytical methodologies to inform the planning decisions for evaluating and selecting siting plans for facilities that ensure both convenient provision of products and services by customers and users and efficient operations. Facility location and network design has long been an integral topic of study in operations management. Earlier research focused mainly on a strategic view of accessibility and operational costs but often neglects the impacts of future tactical and operational activities to be conducted in the network, and optimizes objectives that do not fully reflect the long-term performance of the facility network. In an attempt to rectify this shortcoming, researchers have proposed an integrated modeling approach that enhances the classical models by jointly considering strategic, tactical and operational activities in facility systems. As shown in a series of recent research, this integrated modeling approach can potentially deliver new insights into facility location problems in a variety of contexts. Integrated Modeling for Location Analysis reviews some important concepts in this emerging stream of literature. Integrated Modeling for Location Analysis is aimed to serve as a reference for readers who like to develop their own models but are less familiar with this line of research. Furthermore, this monograph reviews a number of applications of this research, including both applications in supply chain contexts and other emerging domains like sustainable transportation, energy, and health care.