Executive Summary
This thesis from the Naval Postgraduate School details a simulation-based approach to improve operational efficiency at the Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Norfolk's Material Processing Center (MPC). It addresses workload surges, backlogs, and their impact on fleet readiness by optimizing resource allocation using Simio software. The study models the impact of a new Warehouse Management System transition and proposes strategies for backlog recovery.
Why It Matters
This document provides insights into optimizing military logistics and supply chain efficiency, directly impacting fleet readiness and operational support for U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Army units.
Key Takeaways
- The DLA Distribution Norfolk's Material Processing Center (MPC) experiences workload surges causing backlogs and delays, directly impacting fleet mission readiness.
Source evidence · PDF page 8
The Material Processing Center (MPC) at Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Norfolk faces intermittent workload surges, leading to backlogs, delays, and reduced fleet readiness. With little knowledge of future workload, MPC supervision struggles to manage resources effectively during peak throughput.
- A simulation model predicted that a transition to a new Warehouse Management System (WMS) could lead to a backlog of approximately 4,122 packages due to a 60% efficiency drop during training.
Source evidence · PDF page 44
The primary objective of the simulation was to assess the impact of an upcoming transition from DSS to a new Warehouse Management System (WMS). Historically, such system upgrades have led to productivity declines of up to 40% during the training period, significantly disrupting operations. Our simulation sought to quantify the backlog that would accumulate during this transition and explore strategies for recovery.
- Strategies for backlog recovery include deploying an additional 10 personnel from DLA's Deployable Depot Team (DDXX) or implementing weekend overtime work.
Source evidence · PDF page 44
Backlog Recovery Strategies: Testing different strategies for clearing the accumulated backlog. The first strategy involved deploying an additional 10 personnel from DLA’s Deployable Depot Team (DDXX) to increase processing capacity. The second strategy introduced weekend overtime work to expedite backlog clearance.
Strategic Relevance
Optimizing military logistics and supply chain management is critical for maintaining operational readiness and supporting deployed forces. This study offers a methodology for improving efficiency and mitigating disruptions in a key defense distribution hub, directly contributing to strategic force projection and sustainment.