SLIM

SLIM (Strategic Logistics plannIng systeM) is a supply chain optimization toolset designed for large organizations with complex distribution networks. According to the vendor, SLIM is tailored to meet the needs of logistics and supply chain professionals, transportation and distribution managers, operations managers, retailers, and manufacturing companies. The software aims to strategically plan and optimize distribution, transport, and supply chain operations, potentially resulting in improved efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Key Features

Strategic Supply Chain Optimization: According to the vendor, SLIM can allocate delivery points to production or distribution centers based on supply price and transport cost. It is said to be suitable for various industries such as parcel and postal networks, petroleum supply chains, consumer goods and retail, and manufacturing and supply chain optimization.

Logistics Network Optimization: The vendor claims that SLIM addresses the strategic analysis and planning of network locations. It allows users to model logistics networks, transport operations, freight/express networks, retail distribution, and field service operations. Additionally, it includes integrated GIS analysis tools and demographic profiling modules.

Depot Territory Planning Software: SLIM is said to automate and streamline territory planning and depot territory management. The vendor states that it optimizes the allocation of territories to distribution depots, production sites, or retail outlets. Furthermore, it automatically optimizes the allocation of supplier contracts.

Site Location Analysis: According to the vendor, SLIM offers powerful territory mapping and site location analysis tools. It is designed for very large distribution, retail, or service networks with complex product portfolios and high customer service expectations.

Supply Optimization: The vendor claims that SLIM optimizes the allocation of orders to suppliers offering the same product at different prices from different locations. It takes into account various factors such as transport costs, available volumes, and constraints like minimum order quantities and discounts. The vendor suggests that it can be run daily to make the best use of existing agreements or at a strategic level to assist with contract negotiations.

Logistics Capacity Planning: SLIM allows for long-term planning of logistics resources based on historical trends and forecast demands, according to the vendor. It optimizes the logistics network to find the ideal balance of own vs contractor resources, considering factors such as seasonality, demand variances, service levels, and warehousing constraints.

Hub and Distribution Centre Optimization: The vendor claims that SLIM models and optimizes the impact of freight flows and traffic profiles on hub and distribution center activity. It simulates end-to-end activity at the site, including gatehouse, trailer park, sortation/picking, processing, and loading/unloading. The vendor states that it identifies potential queues and bottlenecks and aims to minimize them.

Advanced optimization algorithms for green logistics operations: According to the vendor, SLIM incorporates advanced optimization algorithms to support environmentally-friendly logistics operations, promoting sustainability in global supply chains.

Synchromodal logistics for sustainable global supply chains: The vendor suggests that SLIM enables synchromodal logistics, which combines different modes of transport to create efficient and sustainable global supply chains.

New algorithms for increasing resilience in the Supply Chain: SLIM incorporates new algorithms that the vendor claims enhance the resilience of supply chains, enabling businesses to better handle disruptions and uncertainties.