# Bullwhip effect attenuation in supply chain management via control-theoretic tools and short-term forecasts: A preliminary study with an application to perishable inventories

**Authors:** Koussaila Hamiche, Michel Fliess, Cédric Join, Hassane Abouaïssa  
**arXiv:** [1903.04256](https://arxiv.org/abs/1903.04256)  
**Date:** 2019-03-11  
**Summary page:** https://www.summarizepaper.com/en/paper/1903.04256v1/

## Key points

- The paper explores the use of control systems with delays in supply chain management and inventory control
- The authors propose a novel approach that combines Smith predictors, model-free control, and new time series forecasting techniques
- Perishable inventories within the supply chain are addressed as a key aspect of the study
- The authors aim to optimize inventory levels while minimizing waste for perishable goods
- The paper focuses on addressing the "bullwhip effect" in supply chains, which refers to the amplification of demand fluctuations upstream
- The proposed control-theoretic tools and short-term forecasts are used to attenuate the bullwhip effect
- Numerous computer simulations are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of their approach
- The integrated control system shows benefits for managing supply chains with delays
- Practical solutions are provided to enhance efficiency and reduce waste in various industries.

## Summary

The paper titled "Bullwhip effect attenuation in supply chain management via control-theoretic tools and short-term forecasts: A preliminary study with an application to perishable inventories" explores the use of control systems with delays in supply chain management and inventory control. The authors, Koussaila Hamiche, Michel Fliess, Cédric Join, and Hassane Abouaïssa, propose a novel approach that combines Smith predictors, model-free control, and new time series forecasting techniques to develop an efficient control synthesis. One key aspect addressed in the study is the management of perishable inventories within the supply chain. The authors recognize that perishable goods require special attention due to their limited shelf life. By incorporating perishable inventories into their control system framework, they aim to optimize inventory levels while minimizing waste. The paper also focuses on addressing the "bullwhip effect," which refers to the amplification of demand fluctuations as they propagate upstream in a supply chain. This phenomenon can lead to inefficiencies such as excess inventory or stockouts. The authors explain and attenuate this effect by utilizing their proposed control-theoretic tools and short-term forecasts. To evaluate the effectiveness of their approach, numerous computer simulations are conducted and presented in the paper. These simulations provide convincing evidence of the benefits of using their integrated control system for managing supply chains with delays. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into how advanced control systems can be applied to improve supply chain management and inventory control. By considering perishable inventories and addressing the bullwhip effect, the authors provide practical solutions that have the potential to enhance efficiency and reduce waste in various industries.