Background/ Problem
Before giving a brief background of the various logistic problems, it quite important to have proper understanding of what is meant by logistic. Carlos F. Daganzo (2005) defines it as a “set of activities whose objective is to move items between origins and destinations in a timely fashion” (p. 1). The definition above gives us an idea of the enormous problems relating to the distribution and transportations of assorted logistics from the factory where these logistic supplies are manufactured going to the assembly warehouse or the distribution centers, as often times, most of the components of these logistic must be assembled before they are sold or put into operation.
Oftentimes, most companies face enormous challenges which result to problems eventually; specifically they have to seek more cost effective resolutions where they need concrete and advanced knowledge in the operation. Advanced information is required especially that transportation modes would include land, marine, and even aviation, in which logistics management has to utilize the latest technology as much as possible in the whole operation of logistics.
Because of the hassles in the operation, it is important for the person in charge of the logistics operation to have a clear mental picture of the whole process of distribution and transportation from the factory to the warehouses or to the distribution centers for the assembling and sorting, and segregating of these supplies to make them ready for sale.
In view of the hassles and problems relating to transportation and distribution, this paper aims to find out what mental models are most appropriate to solve various logistic problems. According to Daganzo, the traditional way of solving logistic problems is by “gathering as much detailed information about the problem, formulating a mathematical program including all the information that might be possibly relevant” (p. 1). Since, the operation is wide ranging, operators have to adapt to the changes and take the innovation brought by technology. Daganzo admits that because of the numerous decision variables, sometimes, decisions are made with no systematic analysis and therefore not insightful. Thus, the traditional way of solving various logistic problems is not efficient.
Purpose Statement
Thus, in this study, the researcher seeks to identify different mental models that are appropriate for the different issues related to logistics operation such as documentation (which usually includes maintenance manuals, technical data, etc.), support task performance (teams), and equipments.
Reference
- Daganzo, C. (2005) Logistic Systems Analysis Germany: Springer