Applying Business Intelligence and KPIs to Manage a Pharmaceutical Distribution Center: A Case Study

Abstract

The use of modern Business Intelligence (BI) tools, provide real-time information and support decision making. In this context, the purpose of the present study was to develop a BI application. To do so we had to identify the structure of the Key Performance Indicators (KPI), to analyze and select a BI methodology and tools through an empirical method. Three types of research methods were applied: Descriptive, documentary and field. Data were collected through interviews. Finally, the elements of the KPI structure were identified as the following: (a) denomination, (b) concept, (c) function, (d) objective (e) form of calculation, (f) frequency of calculation, (g) data source, (h) form of representation and (i) responsible. Then, we developed as a case study a BI application using QPM and the QlikView methodology to support decision-making in the distribution center of the company Farmaenlace Cía Ltda.