Network Design and Center of Gravity Analysis

In order to optimize distribution networks, warehouse locations, and even reorganize the production network, it is necessary to use powerful tools in addition to comprehensive consulting expertise. The variety of degrees of freedom for designing an optimum and the complexity of scenario development, right through to the final identification of the ideal solution, can no longer be managed without software support. For years, ebp-consulting has been using a powerful tool suite for supply chain design that combines applications from Log-hub, KNIME, and Tableau into a consistent, integrated solution approach. Its performance has been successfully proven in more than 50 consulting projects. The individual functions specifically support the areas of supply chain visualization, network design, and transport optimization—from data preparation to strategic location planning.

Log-hub: Modern supply chain apps for precise network design

Log-hub's supply chain apps form the core of data-based network planning. They enable detailed modeling of logistics networks, comparison of scenarios, and visualization of optimization potential:

• Center of Gravity (CoG) analysis: Determining optimal locations to minimize transport costs and distances – the basis of any professional location planning.
• Network design and scenario analysis: Modeling multi-stage supply chains, including capacities, shipping volumes, and route structures for strategic decision-making.
• Transport optimization: Analysis of transport modes, service levels, and cost structures to reduce overall costs across the entire supply chain.
• Scenario comparison and visualization: Interactive maps, heat maps, and 3D representations help communicate results and make strategic options transparent.

KNIME: Powerful data preparation for supply chain analytics

The open source software KNIME is a central element of the tool suite and is used for structured data preparation and analysis. It cleans and structures network, transport, inventory, and shipment data and serves as a data pipeline to feed the log hub models.

Automated workflows create a consistent, traceable database that enables precise analyses and reproducible results—a crucial foundation for data-based logistics consulting and successful network planning.

Tableau: Transparent visualization for informed decisions

Tableau converts analysis results into interactive dashboards and animated reports. This makes complex relationships easy to understand and speeds up decision-making. Tableau creates transparency, increases acceptance of results, and supports communication in interdisciplinary teams—a key factor in strategic supply chain planning.

By combining in-depth consulting expertise, innovative analysis tools, and data-driven methodology, ebp-consulting offers comprehensive solutions for supply chain network design, location planning, and network optimization. Companies benefit from a structured, scalable, and transparent approach that leads to reliable, future-oriented decisions – for efficient, resilient, and sustainable supply chains.

Get in touch now and find out how ebp-consulting can support you as a supply chain management consultant!