Acknowledgements
We would like to thank our thesis advisor Professor Gabriel Bitran for providing the right mix of
direction and autonomy and for sharing his expertise and insight regarding the retail industry.
We would like to thank industry experts Fred Hajjar of Accenture, Steve Biciocchi of CSC
Consulting, Gurdip Singh of i2 Technologies, Christian Koch of SAP, and Harvey Rickles and
Cy Wang of UPS Supply Chain Solutions, Mike Spears of Gillette for their insight. We also
would like to thank industry experts who are not explicitly named in this document. From MIT,
we would like to thank Dr. Larry Lapide and Dr. Chris Caplice who provided direction, industry
expert contacts, and expertise to help facilitate the completion of this thesis.
Colby's Acknowledgments
I would like to thank my family and friends that have supported me throughout this experience at
MIT. I especially would like to thank my Mom and Dad for their love, as well as their support
and encouragement in all my endeavors.
Marguarette's Acknowledgments
I would like to thank my family, friends, and loved ones for all their support that they have given
throughout the years. I would like to specifically express gratitude to my mom and dad for all
their love and encouragement that has helped me get to where I am today. I would also like to
thank my thesis partner, Colby for his effort throughout the entire thesis process. This great
experience has been made better with their support.
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