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The interaction between customer service policy, as defined by the in‐transit delivery lead time component of the order cycle and the design of least cost distribution systems is examined. A broader view of the distribution system design problem than previously taken in the literature is given and both the firm′s network strategy (number and location of facilities) and transportation strategy (mode/method of shipment) into the planning process are incorporated. Procedures for incorporating customer service policy into the distribution system design process are discussed; the effect of alternate customer service definitions on the least cost distribution system design are evaluated; and new mathematical procedures that integrate customer service policy, network strategy and transportation strategy into a comprehensive planning model are provided. Example problems in the text illustrate the potential benefit of accepting premium transportation costs in return for reduced facility proximity to customers.

To better understand contributing factors and mediating mechanisms related to team dynamics in isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) environments.

Literature review.

Our primary focus is on cohesion and adaptation – two critical aspects of team performance in ICE environments that have received increased attention in both the literature and funding initiatives. We begin by describing the conditions that define ICE environments and review relevant individual biological, neuropsychiatric, and environmental factors that interact with team dynamics. We then outline a unifying team cohesion framework for long-duration missions and discuss several environmental, operational, organizational, and psychosocial factors that can impact team dynamics. Finally, we end with a discussion of directions for future research and countermeasure development, emphasizing the importance of temporal dynamics, multidisciplinary integration, and novel conceptual frameworks for the inherently mixed work and social setting of long-duration missions in ICE environments.

A better understanding of team dynamics over time can contribute to success in a variety of organizational settings, including space exploration, defense and security, business, education, athletics, and social relationships.

We promote a multidisciplinary approach to team dynamics in ICE environments that incorporates dynamic biological, behavioral, psychological, and organizational factors over time.