Master's Thesis

Logistics Optimization Models

Final Thesis 1.38 MB Appendix 17.78 kB

Author of thesis: Keren Efua Ewusi

Acad. year: 2025/2026

Supervisor: RNDr. Pavel Popela, Ph.D.

Reviewer: Ing. Mgr. Eva Mrázková, Ph.D.

Abstract:

This thesis investigates optimization approaches for cement distribution logistics in Ghana using mathematical programming models namely the Network flow model, Mixed Integer programming model and Stochastic model with a specific case study in Ghana. The research aims to identify cost efficient transportation and allocation strategies under different operational conditions. The models are implemented in GAMS using data collected and estimated from the GHACEM case study and computational results are then compared in terms of optimal transportation costs, shipment allocations, and sensitivity to changes in demand, production capacity, and transportation costs.

Keywords:

Logistics optimization, Mathematical programming, Linear programming, Integer programming, Stochastic optimization, Transportation problem, Scenario analysis, GAMS.

Date of defence

16.06.2026

Result of the defence

Defended (thesis was successfully defended)

znamkaBznamka

Grading

B

Process of defence

The student presented her work on the topic “Logistics Optimization Models”. The supervisor and the opponent were present in person and read their reviews. The student then responded to the opponent’s questions.

Language of thesis

English

Faculty

Department

Study programme

Applied and Interdisciplinary Mathematics (N-AIM-A)

Composition of Committee

doc. Ing. Luděk Nechvátal, Ph.D. (předseda)
prof. RNDr. Josef Šlapal, CSc. (místopředseda)
Mgr. Jitka Zatočilová, Ph.D. (člen)
doc. Ing. Jiří Šremr, Ph.D. (člen)
prof. RNDr. Miloslav Druckmüller, CSc. (člen)
Prof. Raffaele D'Ambrosio (člen)

Supervisor’s report
RNDr. Pavel Popela, Ph.D.

The submitted thesis focuses on logistics optimization models with a concrete application to the distribution network of GHACEM cement in Ghana. The main objectives as acquisition and application of knowledge in logistics and mathematical programming, formulation of several model types, implementation in GAMS, and comparison of results have been fulfilled to a  good extent. The thesis demonstrates that the student understood the intended goals and worked steadily towards them. The working process reflects an author's patient approach. She gradually builds the optimization models, which are implemented in GAMS using the CPLEX solver. I appreciate that the student independently mastered programming in GAMS, including data exchange with Excel, which is not a trivial step and deserves explicit appreciation. On the other hand, some recommended improvements were implemented only partially. However, the applied methodology is overall adequate and meaningful. A slightly more independent critical reflection or extension (e.g., larger real world data and full MIP use) would further strengthen the contribution. According to the Theses similarity report, the overall similarity is based on overlaps with the previous version of thesis and with standard textbook formulations and definitions, which is acceptable and does not raise concerns about originality. 
The achieved results are interpreted in a generally correct and understandable way. The author successfully compares the models. The interpretation of EVPI, VSS, and scenario behavior is adequate and shows understanding of the concepts. The discussion remains somewhat descriptive rather than analytically deeper. The thesis has modest practical relevance, mainly in the context of developing logistics systems such as in Ghana. While the input data are partly estimated and simplified, the framework itself is transferable to real-world applications. The main limitation lies in the simplified scale (limited number of nodes and  scenarios), which reduces immediate direct applicability but does not diminish the conceptual usefulness. 
The thesis is logically structured, progressing from theory to models and finally to case study and comparison. The presence of appendices with GAMS code is appropriate and supports transparency. Nevertheless, several formal and technical imperfections are present and some of them deserve to be explicitly noted as not updated references after the last changes and remaining misprints in notation. The graphical and stylistic quality is adequate but not without flaws. The work contains a number of language inaccuracies and stylistic inconsistencies. The thesis relies on relevant and standard literature in mathematical programming and logistics. Improvements could be made in more explicit referencing in some sections.
The thesis represents a conscientious and honest piece of work. The student approached the topic with diligence, patience, and a quietly persistent effort  that are qualities that I have consistently observed during her studies. It is also worth mentioning that she independently mastered GAMS coding, which is a demanding skill and deserves appreciation. At the same time, a certain hesitation and occasional inconsistency in implementing recommended improvements weaken the final impression and marking. The work meets the requirements for a Master’s thesis and demonstrates a solid understanding of the subject and is recommended for defence.
Evaluation criteria Grade
Splnění požadavků a cílů zadání B
Postup a rozsah řešení, adekvátnost použitých metod B
Vlastní přínos a originalita B
Schopnost interpretovat dosažené výsledky a vyvozovat z nich závěry A
Využitelnost výsledků v praxi nebo teorii C
Logické uspořádání práce a formální náležitosti C
Grafická, stylistická úprava a pravopis B
Práce s literaturou včetně citací B
Samostatnost studenta při zpracování tématu C

Grade proposed by supervisor: B

The thesis addresses the optimization of cement distribution logistics in Ghana using mathematical programming models, including network flow and stochastic approaches applied to a GHACEM case study.

The work is logically structured, progressing from classical transportation models to more advanced formulations. The implementation in GAMS and the comparison of different approaches represent valuable aspects. Positive elements include clear network visualisations, a solid overview of the corresponding mathematical theory, and an effort to analyse results using sensitivity analysis and stochastic indicators. A significant strength of the thesis is its focus on a real-world problem. Despite the lack of available real data, the author made an effort to estimate the parameters based on historical records, industry reports, and socio-economic indicators, thereby increasing the practical relevance of the results.

However, the thesis contains several shortcomings. Formally, there are inconsistencies in notation, incorrect references to figures, tables, and equations, typographical errors both in the text and in the mathematical expressions, and issues with the reference list (unused sources and incorrect ordering). Some results are unnecessarily repeated (e.g., Tables 4.30 and 5.1). In the case of the so-called Road Switching Model, it is unfortunate that the author did not formulate and solve a full MILP problem, but instead considered only two simplified scenarios (road open/closed). The modelled problem is relatively small in scale. Although the thesis suggests the possibility of working with larger datasets (with a prepared import from Excel into GAMS via GDXXRW), the extension to a more realistic network (with multiple transshipment hubs, customers, and additional transportation constraints) was not carried out. 

Overall, the thesis demonstrates a good understanding of optimization techniques and their application. The level of processing, model complexity, and formal quality somewhat limit its overall contribution. The student has satisfactorily met most of the requirements outlined in the assignment and therefore, I recommend it for defence.
Evaluation criteria Grade
Splnění požadavků a cílů zadání B
Postup a rozsah řešení, adekvátnost použitých metod C
Vlastní přínos a originalita C
Schopnost interpretovat dosaž. výsledky a vyvozovat z nich závěry B
Využitelnost výsledků v praxi nebo teorii C
Logické uspořádání práce a formální náležitosti C
Grafická, stylistická úprava a pravopis B
Práce s literaturou včetně citací D
Topics for thesis defence:
  1. Why did you set the weekly production values for the plants in Tema and Takoradi at 5000 and 4000 tonnes, and why were these specific values chosen despite the fact that the work mentions realistic estimates of total weekly production ranging from 46,000 to 65,000 tonnes?
  2. Try to interpret more clearly what a higher value of EVPI means in your problem.

Grade proposed by reviewer: C

Responsibility: Mgr. et Mgr. Hana Odstrčilová