Introduction

Abstract

In this chapter, we motivate this book and demonstrate the need for the inclusion of quality in supply chain network modeling, analysis, and computations. Our perspective is that of network economics, which helps to reveal the complex interactions among supply chain decision-makers and their behaviors as well as the topology of the supply chain structures. In addition, we review definitions of quality and discuss how to quantify quality. We also highlight the foundational literature from economics, operations research and management science, and operations management on the subject of quality relevant to supply chain networks. Finally, we describe the scope of this book and the organization of its parts and chapters.