PSCDSSCM1100 - Supply Chain Analytics Certificate

Prescriptive Analytics - Feb. 28-March 1, 2019

Optimization technology is omnipresent in our society. Applications range from scheduling traffic lights sequence to checkout lanes in groceries, from transportation of goods and people using train, ship, or an airplane to organizing your personal time to meet work deadlines and still have enough family time. Optimization is essential to successfully meet every-day needs.

This class is an introduction to discrete optimization and exposes you to some of the most fundamental concepts in the field. Cover optimization models, linear programming case studies using Excel and scenario planning using what-if analysis in class. Also, learn an overview of how uncertainty can be modeled, optimization modeling from unconstrained to linear and integer programming and concepts applicable to areas such as project management, decision analysis, scheduling, allocation of resources, and supply-chain optimization. 

Supply Chain Analytics - March 28- 29, 2019

Supply chains are complex systems involving multiple organizations with different goals and objectives. Many different analytical approaches are used in practice to better design and manage these supply chain ecosystems. In this course, focus on the application rather than the theoretical aspects. Emphasis will be on a variety of fundamental supply chain applications such as transportation, capacity allocation, production planning, network flow, vehicle routing, aggregate planning, sales and operations planning, and network design. Using Excel, gain hands-on experience in creating and solving optimal distribution, planning and logistics problems. The format of this course includes lectures and problem-solving sessions. 

Inventory Analytics - April 25-26, 2019

Master your inventory with this fluid course on inventory optimization using Excel-based (statistical) tools. Topics in this course include the economic order quantity model, dynamic lot sizing, statistical inventory models, bullwhip effect, and inventory positioning and logistics coordination in supply chains. In addition, using the tools discussed in this course, you are able to perform cycle stock, safety stock and service level calculations, and account for uncertain demands and backlogging. The format of this course includes lectures and problem-solving sessions. Basic probability and statistics experience is required.

• Professionals or managers in manufacturing or operations based businesses
• Professionals or managers in high volume healthcare systems
• Professionals or managers in refineries and chemical processing plants
• Professionals or managers in oilfield services 
• Professionals or managers in logistics, supply chain or scheduling

Rice University's George R. Brown School of Engineering

Basic Microsoft Excel capabilities are required for this offering.

In-Person or Online

This course is offered through the Glasscock School’s Zoom-powered classroom, which gives students the opportunity to attend in person at the Rice campus or to attend and participate online. From class to class, students can choose how they wish to participate.