Logistics and quantitative methods

The Logistics and Quantitative Methods Competence Area concentrates its R&D expertise on the following:

• A multidisciplinary approach to conduct innovative R&D in logistics and supply chain management; complex decision-aiding, using mathematical and statistical modelling
• Quantitative methods useful in many applications, some being highly complex and challenging and others requiring high levels of innovation.

Research areas include:

• Statistical modelling and analysis

Multivariate time series for count data; application of Bayesian methods; structural equations modelling; extreme value theory; spatial and temporal data analysis; design of indicators; development of standards; experimental design; regression; forecasting methods; classification; questionnaire design; and sampling.

• Advanced modelling and supply chain research

Optimisation and heuristics; development of quantitative supply chain analysis tools; routing optimisation; complexity science; humanitarian operations research and logistics; inventory requirements; planning in uncertain environments; operational research techniques; supply chain management; freight logistics strategies; and agricultural supply chains.

Enquiries - Competence Area Manager:
Theo Stylianides, tel 012-841-3014; email tstylian@csir.co.za

Published research highlights

	Using GIS as a forensic tool: 10 years of CSIR involvement CSIR research uses geographic information systems (GIS), crime mapping and cell phone data to guide policing activities and to provide the authorities with forensic evidence in criminal cases.

	Numerical modelling of structures of dolosse and their interaction with waves CSIR researchers have applied various numerical techniques to describe the stability of breakwater structures under the exposure of waves.