Bullwhip effect reduction in supply chain management: one size fits all?

Abstract

In this paper, we try to investigate whether specific solutions suggested by selected authors in the relevant literature, aiming at controlling the so-called bullwhip effect and consequently reducing inventory and stock-outs, and increasing stock turnover in supply chain managements, are of general applicability. In order to do that, a numerical simulation model was developed and suggestions by Forrester, Kirkwood and Sterman were modelled and tested.