Integrating the Use of Spreadsheet Software and VBA in Inventory Simulation

Abstract—This article reviews the advantages and disadvantages of computer programming and spreadsheet modeling in logistics education and inventory control, and describes using Microsoft Excel and VBA in the classroom. One of these approaches, integrating the use of spreadsheet software and VBA, has been used in recent years in a logistics systems management course with a large enrolment at a major university. The article illustrates how, under the integrated paradigm, various computer software packages are integrated in the course to form a unique learning environment. At the last of the article, we give an illustration of the use of Microsoft Excel and VBA in inventory control. Index Terms—inventory simulation, spreadsheet software, VBA programming, logistics educatio