As Supply Chains grow more complex and sustainability gains importance, simulation becomes essential for evaluating strategies and design choices. This study presents a Structured Literature Review of 259 peer-reviewed contributions, examining how simulation approaches are applied in supply chain contexts, with attention to Circular Economy integration. Using a multi-dimensional classification framework-spanning qualitative, quantitative, and configurational aspects-we identify dominant trends and critical gaps. Linear models dominate (92%), with limited adoption of circular configurations such as Closed-Loop Supply Chain and Circular Supply Chain. Discrete event simulation is most common, while agent-based simulation and hybrid models offer greater flexibility under volatile conditions. Despite some progress, reverse flows and multi-tier structures remain underrepresented. This review offers a structured overview of current modelling practices and outlines directions for more realistic, resilient, and sustainable supply chain simulations.
Mapping Simulation Trends in Supply Chain Management: A Structured Literature Review / Romagnoli, G., Moroni, F., Mercogliano, N., Zammori, F.. - 766 IFIPAICT:(2026), pp. 444-458. [10.1007/978-3-032-03538-7_32]
Mapping Simulation Trends in Supply Chain Management: A Structured Literature Review
Romagnoli G.
Membro del Collaboration Group
;Moroni F.Membro del Collaboration Group
;Zammori F.Membro del Collaboration Group
2026-01-01
Abstract
As Supply Chains grow more complex and sustainability gains importance, simulation becomes essential for evaluating strategies and design choices. This study presents a Structured Literature Review of 259 peer-reviewed contributions, examining how simulation approaches are applied in supply chain contexts, with attention to Circular Economy integration. Using a multi-dimensional classification framework-spanning qualitative, quantitative, and configurational aspects-we identify dominant trends and critical gaps. Linear models dominate (92%), with limited adoption of circular configurations such as Closed-Loop Supply Chain and Circular Supply Chain. Discrete event simulation is most common, while agent-based simulation and hybrid models offer greater flexibility under volatile conditions. Despite some progress, reverse flows and multi-tier structures remain underrepresented. This review offers a structured overview of current modelling practices and outlines directions for more realistic, resilient, and sustainable supply chain simulations.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
