3. Processes, Systems, and Models

This chapter starts with an introductory case-study from aerospace industry. In the first part, the interrelations between business processes, quantitative models, and information systems are discussed. Next, the role of business process management in operations and supply chains is considered. Subsequently, the effects of management information systems in supply chain and operations management are analysed. In particular, ERP, APS, WMS as well as RFID technologies are considered. In the second part, the terms “planning”, “problem”, and “decision” are clarified. The role of models and modelling in decision-making is discussed. Furthermore, this chapter analyses the crucial role of uncertainty, resilience, and risk management in decision-making. Finally, quantitative methods of decision-making are presented and discussed with regard to their applicability to supply chain and operations management. An E-Supplement provides additional case studies and video streams.