Tutorial: Computational Logistics (full-day)
Leaders: Stefan Voß and H.-J. Sebastian

Computational Logistics involves the use of information systems and modern information and communication technology (IT) for the design, planning and control of logistics networks as well as the complex tasks within them. As the logistics and supply chain management fields are developing very dynamically, related service networks are seeking for improved decision support. While modern IT systems are vital components in supply chains and logistics, their successful management rests on intelligent and coordinated decision making throughout the logistics network. In this tutorial we are providing comprehensive insights into computational logistics. Issues are exemplified by the intensive discussion of case studies from two different areas: Seaport container terminals and postal logistics service providers.

The tutorial is related to the Decision Technologies for Management track of HICSS. The agenda will include:
* Introduction into Computational Logistics
* Computational Logistics for Container Terminals
* Computational Logistics for Postal Logistics Service Providers
* Summary and Conclusions

The tutorial introduces issues in computational logistics and extends to practical concerns in logistics services and service networks. The objective of the tutorial is to achieve abilities in problem solving and management of systems of computational logistics. The participants learn about the ways of analyzing service oriented logistics and supply chain systems. This will be used to different situations for logistics systems in real-world environments.

The tutorial gives insights into issues in models and applications of information systems at seaport and container terminals including intermodal traffic. We discuss various information systems regarding terminal operators, shipping companies etc. The tutorial gives a deaper insight into the design principles of service networks in general and transshipment points in and container terminals in particular. We provide details regarding distribution networks for letter, parcel, express mail and freight as well. It also shows how to optimize subnetworks as e.g. collection of mail, long haul transportation networks using hubs and different modes of transportation and the so called last mile. It provides the participants with state of the art optimization models and algorithms which are proven to work well in practice and it finally demonstrates the use of decision support systems to optimize various issues in computational logistics.

Hans-Jürgen Sebastian (sebastian@or.rwth-aachen.de) is a full professor for Operations Research and Logistics Management at the RWTH Aachen University. Since 2004 he holds the Deutsche Post Chair of Optimization of Distribution Networks. His research interests cover: Optimization in Transportation, Strategic Planning of Complex Logistics Networks, Supply Chain Management, Engineering Design and Optimization. He received grants from Deutsche Post World Net and Ford Motor Company.

Stefan Voß (stefan.voss@uni-hamburg.de) is full professor and director of the Institute of Information Systems at the University of Hamburg. Research interests are in management science and information systems. He authored several books and numerous papers. He holds various editorships including the Annals of Information Systems. He is consulting with several companies.