Overview
Smarter operations for a more connected world
This research area focuses on the design, management, and optimisation of operations and supply chains in an era of digital disruption. We study how organisations leverage information systems, automation, and data analytics to build resilient, efficient, and sustainable operations.
Our research spans manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and public-sector contexts, combining quantitative modelling with case-based and empirical methods to address real operational challenges.
Digital supply chain research
Investigating how IoT, blockchain, and AI reshape supply chain visibility and resilience.
Industry partnerships
Collaboration with logistics operators, manufacturers, and public procurement bodies.
Sustainability focus
Research on green logistics, circular supply chains, and carbon footprint reduction.
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What we study
Core Research Themes
Six themes covering the full range of operational and supply chain challenges facing modern organisations.
Supply Chain Management & Resilience
We study the design and governance of multi-tier supply networks, with a focus on building resilience against disruption. Research covers risk management frameworks, supplier relationship management, and the role of information sharing in supply chain coordination.
- Supply chain risk identification and mitigation strategies
- Supplier selection, evaluation, and relationship management
- Information sharing, visibility, and the bullwhip effect
- Reshoring, nearshoring, and supply chain reconfiguration
Logistics & Transportation Management
We investigate the planning and optimisation of freight and passenger transport networks, last-mile delivery solutions, and warehouse management systems. Special emphasis is placed on urban logistics and the role of digital platforms in connecting shippers and carriers.
- Route optimisation and vehicle routing problems
- Last-mile delivery: crowdsourcing, drones, and autonomous vehicles
- Warehouse management systems and automation
- Urban logistics and city freight policies
Digital Technologies in Operations
We examine the adoption and impact of Industry 4.0 technologies — IoT, AI, blockchain, and digital twins — on operational performance. Research addresses both the technical integration challenges and the organisational change required to realise their value.
- IoT-enabled real-time tracking and asset management
- Blockchain for supply chain traceability and provenance
- AI and machine learning in demand forecasting
- Digital twin applications in manufacturing and logistics
Sustainable & Green Operations
We investigate how organisations design and manage operations to minimise environmental impact while maintaining economic viability. This includes circular economy strategies, carbon footprint measurement, and the trade-offs between cost efficiency and sustainability goals.
- Green supply chain design and environmental performance
- Circular economy and reverse logistics systems
- Carbon accounting and scope 3 emissions management
- Sustainable procurement and ESG criteria in sourcing
Public Procurement & E-Procurement
We study the digitalisation of public and private procurement processes, examining how e-procurement platforms, dynamic purchasing systems, and open data initiatives improve efficiency, transparency, and value for money in public spending.
- E-procurement platform adoption and usage behaviour
- Dynamic purchasing systems and framework agreements
- Open contracting data standards and transparency
- Innovation procurement: PCP, PPI, and startup engagement
Service Operations & Quality Management
We examine how service organisations design and deliver high-quality customer experiences, manage capacity and demand, and apply lean and continuous improvement methodologies. Research spans healthcare, hospitality, financial services, and public administration.
- Service quality measurement: SERVQUAL and beyond
- Lean service operations and waste reduction
- Capacity management and queuing in service systems
- Digital service delivery and customer self-service adoption
People
Researchers in this area
Michael Madas
Associate Professor Logistics and transport, supply chain management, project an…Looking to optimise your operations?
We collaborate with logistics companies, manufacturers, and public bodies to tackle real operational challenges. Get in touch to explore how our research can add value.