Sponsor:

Defense Logistics Agency

Research Team:

Manuel D. Rossetti, Carolyn S. Wells, Terry R. Collins

Universities Involved:

University of Arkansas

Start Date:

08/19/02

End Date:

08/19/03

Summary:

The purpose of this research project is to improve the efficiency of supply support to military customers by examining the strategic, tactical, and operational effectiveness of the design and operation of military processing centers (MPC). Three MPC scenarios were conducted using @RISK software, compared and analyzed based upon cost reductions related to MPC activities.
An analysis was made on the ongoing operations within Military Processing Centers (MPC) at DLA. This research conducted a thorough analysis of the efficiency of the Norfolk Material Processing Center (MPC) and the supporting Defense Distribution Center (DDC) facility.

This project has resulted in detailed analysis and documentation of the DDNV MPC operations, DDSP operations related to the MPC, cost models for each of these operations, and suggested process improvements.

An analysis of three MPC scenarios was conducted using the software @RISK for appropriate assessment of uncertainty and variability. The model included a “Current
MPC”, “Proposed MPC”, and a “Futuristic MPC” scenario analysis based upon cost reductions related to MPC activities. In addition to the scenario modeling, a Simple
Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART) was employed to assess the benefits of the alternatives based upon particular attributes.
The findings of this analysis concluded the need for material handling/flow improvements at the MPC. It is recommended by the research team that the conveyor system proposed by MPC personnel (linking buildings W-135 and Y-109) be considered as a process improvement. Furthermore, it is recommended that the application of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) be examined as a possible implementation by the DLA in order to promote a more accurate and efficient tracking and supply system within MPCs.