Training and recruitment in logistics node design by using web-based simulation

This paper proposes an innovative approach for using Modelling and Simulation (M&S) jointly with web technologies for designing logistics nodes. The proposed model takes into consideration one of the most critical supply chain nodes: a container terminal. The approach proposed by authors, to a web virtual environment (that acts as distribute framework), is devoted to support high education, training and recruitment in life cycle management of container terminal resources (design of logistics nodes). The authors propose an application example on cranes and forklifts life cycle designed for showing the potentials of the proposed approach. The aim of the analysis (conducted by using Box-Behnken Design of Experiments and Response Surface Analysis) is the identification of the optimal time for performing the life extension inspection, the optimal cluster for cranes and for forklifts. The same approach can also be used in industrial plants or in any kind of complex facility.