W e propose the use of robust optimization (RO) as a powerful methodology for multiperiod stochastic operations management problems. In particular, we study a two-echelon multiperiod supply chain problem, known as the retailer-supplier flexible commitment (RSFC) problem with uncertain demand that is only known to reside in some uncertainty set. We adopt a min-max criterion, whereby the cost function is minimized against the worst case demand occurrence. To solve the min-max RSFC problem we employ a recent extension of the RO method adapted to dynamic decision problems and known as the affinely adjustable robust counterpart (AARC) methodology. The AARC solution is tested by a large simulation study and found to provide excellent results.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations –citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.