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In the above model with 2 DCs, there is a need to store inventory only at one center, either at PoC or PoED, other DC would work as transfer location. Here, we could introduce the concept of Cross Docking and in-transit merging. In Cross-docking, the inventory does not get stored, but only passes by and goes through rapid unloading, deconsolidation/reconsolidation and reloading. In in-transit merging the pipeline is still in place as well, but individual shipments are grouped on the way to the point of delivery.

PoC is a transfer location, where no inventory is stored, instead cross docking is employed. Material from inbound transportation is simply mixed and transferred into outbound transportation. This calls for painstakingly synchronizing and coordinating the activities.

Whereas at PoED, material is stored and broken down into appropriate lot sizes and based on demand transfer it to the disaster-strike area.

V. Manage Information

Disasters, both natural and man-made, can strike anytime or anywhere. There are two ways to overcome disasters: the first is to prevent them from occurring, and second to have an emergency system and plan of operation prior to the occurrence of any crisis. In either approach, communications play an important role in disaster management.

Disaster management demands for some design principles in an information system.

1. Information processing should be done in a prognostic manner.
2. It should be done in a case-based model.
3. The system should be automated as much as possible but with constant human monitoring and the ability to override.

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* Contributed by: -
Praneet Parate & Anusha Jain,
IIM Lucknow.