Modelling SCM as a Multi-layer Interconnected Constraint Satisfaction Problem

The supply chain is a network of suppliers, factories, warehouses, distribution centres and retailers through which raw materials are acquired, transformed and delivered to customers. In recent years, the emergence of software agents has offered a new dimension to fulfill the desire for automating supply chains. Software agents are employed in supply chains to handle processes and decision making, especially at the operational level of the chain. In this paper we focus on modeling the three decision layers of supply chain management into a multi layer interconnected constraints satisfaction problem. Furthermore, we propose a multi agent system to accommodate the formalisation of the constraints model. © 2009 Crown Copyright.