Understand the network
Study the supply chain and product structures below before deciding where to place your buffers. Note lead times, merge points, and BOM differences between products.
Product Structures (Bill of Materials)
Numbers in circles = lead time (days). FPH requires an additional component (102P) not needed for FPG. Keep that in mind when you position buffers.
Network Nodes
Feeds A → B → C → WIP 201. Longest upstream lead time in the network.
Feeds B → C → E → F to Z merge. Second-longest upstream lead time. Input to both FPG and FPH.
Mid-process WIP made from 301P. Feeds Z, and also sells directly to customers as a service part.
201 and the 204P path converge at Z, a highly skilled assembly operation. Z itself can't hold a buffer, so variability on either input lands in its queue.
Direct BOM input to FPH only, not part of FPG. FPH needs both 101 and 102P. Its supplier has had frequent disruptions.
Assembled at resource Z from 201 and 204P. The only item common to both FPG and FPH.
Customer-facing. Service level is measured here and on the 201 service market. Demand varies day to day, with occasional large orders.
Place your buffers
Click any rectangular node to toggle it as a strategic inventory decoupling point. Apply the six positioning criteria before deciding.
Review & run
Confirm your buffer placement, choose simulation parameters, then run the demand simulation.
Simulation results
Review your score, service across the three markets, buffer health and the debrief. Compare to optimal unlocks after your third run.