A Model-Based Decision Support System for Planning and Scheduling Ocean-Borne Transportation

The development and the operation of a model-based decision-support system for ocean-borne transportation are described. For the past four years, this interactive time-sharing system has provided two sets of functions in that (a) it guides Bethlehem Steel's Marine Operations management in both annual planning and spot decision, and (b) it assists operating personnel not only in routine scheduling on a week-to-week, month-to-month basis throughout the year, but also in adjusting rapidly for emerging opportunities or requirements.