Aspen Distribution Planning Optimization

Logistics Insight Asia - New Products, 15/2/2008

Optimizes the assets and economics of your distribution network

Aspen Distribution Planning Optimization (DPO) is a powerful economic planning tool that solves multi-commodity, multi-period transport optimization problems related to allocating resources - including transportation, raw materials, sales demands, or processing facilities - and balances them to maximize profitability.

Features:

· Model the Distribution Problem: Optimizes the assets and economics of distributing multiple commodities using multiple modes of transportation over multiple time periods. At any node in the network, materials may be produced or purchased, sold or transported, exchanged, inventoried, or consumed.

· Optimal Distribution Plans: Generates optimal feedstock and/or product distribution plans for multiple time periods at various levels of granularity (days, weeks, months, etc.)

· Early Detection of Supply/Demand Problems: Forecasts and proactively evaluates supply and demand problems before they occur.

· Terminal Management: Increases asset utilization and rationalization of terminals, and reduces average inventory level at terminals. “Right-sizes” inventory and increase margins by getting the right product to the right location at the right price, via the right transportation mode.

· Exchange Management: Evaluates “make vs. buy vs. exchange” decisions and import/export alternatives. Multiple nodes and multiple products per exchange contract are supported. Enables the user to maximize leverage of exchange agreements, which is very difficult to do with a spreadsheet.

· “What-If” Analysis: Evaluates new strategies and tactical maneuvers, as well as the impact of new markets, new terminals, or government regulations. Helps you study the effects of adding or removing terminals, tanks, and transportation modes.

· Integration with Refinery Planning: Host an Aspen DPO model from within Aspen PIMS Advanced Optimization™. Streamlines the work process for refinery planning and distribution planning into a single step process and creates a true demand pull work process.

AspenTech, www.aspentech.com