OTD-NET based simulation evaluation of (R, Q) inventory policies for complex distribution systems

Due to the significance of inventory planning for distribution systems, it is imperative to accurately and comprehensively evaluate the performance of inventory policies before applying them into practice. This paper proposes an OTD-NET based simulation model for the assessment of (R, Q) inventory policies in complex distribution systems. Being conceptualized from three essential aspects - physical structure, (R, Q) inventory policies and volatile customer demand, this simulation model is capable of completely reproducing the inventory flows throughout a distribution system under market dynamics. Since the simulation results can truly reflect the performance of certain inventory policies in real market environment, this OTD-NET based simulation evaluation is quite useful for decision making process.