Strategic Management of Spare Parts in Closed-Loop Supply Chains—A System Dynamics Approach

We developed tools for information management and spare-parts management in closed-loop supply chains. Our Internet-based information and communication platform provides data relevant to recycling based on Agfa-Gevaert's concept of a “recycling passport.” We defined what data is relevant based on the product-recovery strategy. Using system dynamics, we modeled an integrated production and recovery system for supplying spare parts to evaluate possible strategies for meeting spare-parts demand for electronic equipment in the end-of-life service period. We will implement these instruments and methods in a pilot study within our partner companies, Agfa-Gevaert AG and Electrocycling GmbH. Decision makers at Agfa-Gevaert will then be able to determine whether and how recovering components could reduce costs in spare-parts management in the end-of-life service period.