Logistics Research and Management Science

The complexities of the Air Force pose a very hard challenge for the development and application of management science. At the same time, they provide a wide range of problems to study. RAND has been engaged in logistics research for the Air Force since 1953. This paper discusses the variety of subjects studied: demand prediction, inventory control, procurement and other decision rules, management control systems, etc. These have made use of many traditional tools of analysis and management science. In addition, simulation techniques have been found particularly useful in fitting together pieces of separate research into a systems context for feasibility and consistency tests.