Transport issues in modelling of subcontracting in a production and logistics network

The study considered the problem of subcontracting of the last stage of the manufacturing process in a production and logistics network. The research was conducted in the sector of steel products distribution. Production and logistics networks were characterized as complex adaptive systems. The research methodology was selected in compliance with that characterization. The statistical analysis carried out at the first stage allowed the authors to describe the relationship between the investigated variables. The findings were used for building a simulation model. For simulation modelling, in connection with the characterization of the network and with the research objectives, the management system dynamics was selected. The simulation model was created in the VENSIM system. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of Program Committee