On a new approach to the analysis of stationary inventory problems

The intent of this paper is to demonstrate that the theory of stationary point processes is a useful tool for the analysis of stationary inventory systems. In conventional inventory theory, the equilibrium distributions for a specified inventory policy are obtained, whenever possible, by recursive or limiting procedures, or both. A different and more direct approach, based on stationary point processes, is proposed here. The time instants at which stock delivery is effected are viewed as points of the stationary point process, which possesses uniform statistical properties on the entire real axis; hence the equilibrium statistics of the inventory process can be calculated directly. In order to best illustrate this approach, various examples are given, including some that constitute new results.     

Neo-elitism and counterterrorism operations in Kenya

Counterterrorism operations in Kenya have often been hindered by a lack of collaboration, coordination and cooperation among the security agencies involved in such operations. This article examines the relationship between neo-elitism and counterterrorism security interagency activity in Kenya. Using neo-elitism as a framework for analysis, with specific reference to the September 2013 Westgate Mall attack counterterrorism operation, it is argued that the lack of collaboration, coordination and cooperation among Kenya’s counterterrorism security agencies often results in unintended adverse consequences. The interagency conflict over the Westgate operation was primarily about command and control, intelligence sharing and official information shared with the public pertaining to the stages of the siege and operation. These security agencies share similar responsibilities and jurisdictions in the rest of the country’s counterterrorism efforts. The interagency conflicts reveal that the country’s security elites pursue personal and agency-specific interests that are aimed at maintaining organisational supremacy over counterterrorism efforts. Recommendations are offered for how to tackle the problem of interagency conflict in order to enhance the effectiveness of counterterrorism operations in Kenya.