Microcomputer‐Based Distribution‐Planning Models

The area of distribution has enjoyed a long history of application of computer modelling to the solution of its problems. For more than 30 years, the areas of terminal analysis, routing and scheduling, inventory control, facility location and system design have been subjected to a multitude of modelling solutions. These modelling solutions include a variety of optimisation, heuristic and simulation models. The vast majority of these models, however, have been mainframe‐based. With the advent and popularisation of the microcomputer, considerable latitude exists in building microcomputer‐based, as opposed to mainframe‐based, distribution‐planning models. Since, in many cases, microcomputer‐based models can be more effective for distribution modelling than mainframe models, this application of microcomputers represents a new generation in the maturation of distribution‐planning models. However, guidelines for the use and development of microcomputer‐based models are needed.