Module Code - Title:
IE5002
-
SIMULATION MODELLING IN SUPPLY CHAINS
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
Supply chains are increasingly complex and require advanced tools to evaluate and optimize performance under varying conditions. Simulation has become a critical method for understanding supply chain behavior and decisions. This module introduces students to supply chain simulation using AnyLogistix, a tool that integrates simulation and optimization for strategic and tactical supply chain analysis.
To provide students with knowledge of supply chain simulation and modelling approaches, and supply chain design.
To provide students with modelling and software capabilities to apply simulation to supply chains using the AnyLogistix tool.
Syllabus:
This module is structured around weekly topics that combine theoretical foundations with the application of the AnyLogistix simulation tool for different supply chain problems:
Week 1: Introduction to simulation modelling and AnyLogistix simulation software
Week 2: Supply chain design and facility location modelling using
Week 3: Inventory management simulation in supply chains
Week 4: Sourcing strategies and scenario comparison in supply chains
Week 5: Shipping, transportation, and risk management in supply chains
Each week includes a blend of conceptual learning and practical exercises using AnyLogistix to model, simulate, and analyze supply chain problems.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
- Discuss the role of simulation modelling for supply chain problems
- Design simulation models of essential supply chains and logistics systems
- Apply the fundamental concepts and practices of simulation to supply chain problems in the real business environment
- Analyse supply chain risks using a simulation modelling approach
- Compare the performance of different supply chain problems
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
N/A
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module fosters a problem-based, practice-oriented learning environment, where students engage directly with supply chain challenges through simulation-based modelling. A blended learning approach combines conceptual instruction with hands-on use of the AnyLogistix software. Students work through applied assignments and a final case study, grounded in recent research and real-world scenarios.
The module supports the development of key graduate attributes:
- Curiosity is fostered by encouraging students to explore supply chain problems similar to those discussed in class for their own assignments, allowing them to deepen their understanding through familiar yet open-ended scenarios.
- Agility is developed through the flexibility students are given in selecting the case for their simulations, rather than being limited to predefined problems. This supports adaptive thinking and problem-solving across diverse supply chain environments.
- Responsibility is cultivated through activities such as risk and disruption analysis, helping students consider the broader social and operational implications of supply chain decisions.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Ivanov, D. (2024)
Supply chain simulation and optimization with anyLogistix, 6th updated edition.
, Berlin School of Economics and Law.
Other Relevant Texts:
Ivanov, D., Tsipoulanidis, A., & Schonberger, J. (2021)
Basics of supply chain and operations management (pp.3 - 19)
, Springer International Publishing
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
PDSCMATPA - SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
PDSCMATPB - SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
MSSCOPTPA - SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS
MSSCOPTPB - SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS
MSSUCOTPA - SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS (APPRENTICESHIP) AUTUMN
MSSUCOTPB - SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS (APPRENTICESHIP) SPRING
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Spring
Summer
Module Leader:
ingrid.hunt@ul.ie