Browsing by Author "Nanayakkara, J."

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An optimization model for planning milling quantities based on forecasting of paddy and rice prices
(International Research Conference on Smart Computing and Systems Engineering - SCSE 2018, 2018) Abeyweera, S.; Nanayakkara, J.
Rice is considered as the staple food of Sri Lanka. The conversion of paddy in to rice is a main value creation found in the Sri Lankan agricultural industries. The paper deals with the planning concerns, in the supply chain of rice. The paper discusses various issues related to production of rice at the downstream end of the supply chain and milling management decisions. Small and Medium scale milling plants around Sri Lanka are facing problems of dissolving their businesses quickly, and they are in a need to utilize their capacity in optimal way. An efficient supply chain management framework is essential for the milling to be efficient in sourcing, processing and distribution of rice under an uncertain environment. In the study, the behaviour of the Sri Lankan paddy and rice market prices volatility has been studied qualitatively and the paper discusses the validity of applying different forecasting tools. Mainly the SARIMA and Winters model have been used for forecasting. The study identifies and proposes two price regions for forecasting, based on the macro environmental factors. In order to attain the research objectives of optimization, the researcher has used linear programming as a continuous multi period model. The research is significant for the small and medium scale milling community to enhance their livelihood by determining the right time and right quantity for procuring, processing and stocking in a volatile market environment.
Readiness assessment model for Sri Lankan apparel industry: Assess current readiness and strategize Industry 4.0 journey
(4th International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Lakmali, G. D. E.; Vidanagamachchi, K.; Nanayakkara, J.
Sri Lankan apparel industry is the most significant and driving contributor to the country’s economy by constituting a large portion of GDP. It has achieved rapid growth rates over the past four decades. In the highly competitive apparel world, manufacturers search solutions for future problems such as worker inadequacy to minimize human intervention to increase productivity. Therefore, there is a need for apparel manufacturers to align value chain operations with the latest technologies. After the first three industrial revolutions, the world is now experiencing the fourth industrial revolution that integrates emerging digital technologies; cyber-physical systems, Internet of Things, big data, simulation, cloud computing and augmented reality. Industry 4.0 enhances process functions by providing real-time visibility for smooth production flow. As an example, machine learning is capable of monitoring critical factors such as machine life to predict the frequency of machine replacement in factories. Before aligning with Industry 4.0, there is an urgent need for assisting companies to improve their capabilities in a standardized, purposeful and sustainable way. Current literature mentions applications of industry 4.0 in the apparel industry but has not assessed readiness to adapt. This research assesses the current readiness of the Sri Lankan apparel industry to adapt industry 4.0 technologies by developing a readiness assessment model based on a systematic review of literature. Eighty-three articles were found with keywords; Industry 4.0 readiness assessment model, cyber-physical system readiness, apparel industry, etc. Forty-six studies were filtered based on relevance and ten existing readiness assessment models were identified. A set of assessment criteria were recognized as compatible with the literature, and the strengths and weaknesses of each readiness model were evaluated systematically. Interviews with industry experts were conducted in order to identify value chain processes in Sri Lankan context. The readiness assessment model comprises readiness dimensions and minimum requirements under each level. The outcome of this study will help industry practitioners in apparel sector to assess the current maturity level and move up the technology ladder while maximizing operational performance. Further, it is suggested to validate this model in Sri Lankan context through a case study approach.
Supply chain reference model for Sri Lankan tourist industry
(University of Kelaniya, 2011) Suwandaarachchi, M.; Nanayakkara, J.
The composition as well as global dispersion of world tourist population is changing with diversified needs, markets and destinations. With minimal investment on tourism for the past several decades, the Sri Lankan tourism industry lacks sound ground to compete both in service quality and growing capacity. It needs a paradigm shift in the provision of services in emerging markets. The value chain of any business plays a major role in identifying, creating and delivering the desired value to the customer. The service providers in tourism industry must be vigilant about the changing tourist expectations and volatile competitive environment. There are less structured business processes in this industry which make most of the traditional controls and measurements weak. However, a good supply chain model can lead the industry towards improved competitiveness and thus boost the economic contribution from tourism. Such a model should enhance communication links between all stakeholders, promote good coordination, lead in the competition and facilitate collective growth. Even though business process modelling and usage of supply chain reference models are well established management practices, Sri Lankan tourism industry is currently lagging behind in applying these models. In this research, the applicability of alternative reference models in the tourism domain have been critically compared in a comprehensive literature survey for the purpose of developing a fitting reference model for the industry as current best of breed management practices. The theoretical framework of supply chain management has been enriched with a validated strategic best practices model and strategies are proposed for addressing problematic areas in the industry. Primary and secondary data related to hoteliers, travel agents and tourists have been analysed. The study prioritizes best practices and proposes a score card for the measurement of performance.