Logistics Professionals Research Articles

Reconceptualizing supply chain flows (SCFLOWS)

PurposeDespite being a fundamental concept, the field of supply chain management (SCM) exhibits a significant lack of consensus regarding the definition of supply chain flows (SCFLOWS). Additionally, there has been an over-reliance on three flows – material, information and finance – while various other flows crucial to SCM performance have been overlooked. Hence, the purpose of this study is twofold: (1) to explore the multi-dimensional nature of SCFLOWS and (2) to identify additional flows beyond the commonly acknowledged ones that are vital for SCM performance.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs various qualitative methods as part of the abduction process. The methods include in-depth interviews with logistics professionals, a Delphi study involving SCM scholars and a focus group comprising airline industry practitioners.FindingsSeven SCFLOWS dimensions are identified and presented as SCFLOWS framework. Also, two additional flows, i.e. human and capital equipment, are proposed as vital to SCM performance.Originality/valueThis is the first study to introduce SCFLOWS framework to achieve consensus in the field. By introducing two additional flows, it proposes extending the SCFLOWS boundary to include various flows overlooked previously but pertinent to SCM performance. The SCFLOWS framework serves as a systematic guide to validate additional flows and represents an important step towards building SCM theory.

Computational analysis of the Logistics Supply Chain from a global trade perspective

Global trade is based on coordinated factors, that means labor and products are moved from their point of origin to the point of use. Strategies have a significant impact on global trade because they enable the effective development of goods across international borders. The decision making is an important task for the development of Logistics Supply Chain (LSC) infrastructure and process. Decisions on supplier selection, production schedule, transportation routes, inventory levels, pricing strategies, and other issues need to be made. These decisions may have a big influence on customer service, profitability, operational efficiency, and overall competitiveness. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) approach of Fuzzy Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (Fuzzy-Promethee-2) is used to assess the priority selection of the factors associated with the LSC and evaluate the importance in global trade. The role of AI is very useful compare to statistical analysis in terms of decision making. The computational analysis placed promotion of exports as the most important priority out of five selected attributes in LSC, with infrastructure development. The result suggests that LSC depends heavily on export promotion as the most significant attribute. Infrastructural development also appeared another factor influencing LSC. The foreign investment was ranked the lowest. The evaluated results are useful for the policy makers, supply chain managers and the logistics professionals associated with the supply chain management.

Critical Reflections: A Qualitative Study on the Development and Impact of Critical Thinking Skills Across Industries

Critical thinking is a vital skill in professional settings, contributing to increased efficiency and innovation. Recognizing its importance, this study aims to explore how critical thinking is developed and applied across various industries. It is based on qualitative interviews with professionals in Education, Health, Logistics, Tourism, and Media. The analysis utilizes thematic, comparative, and content analysis to provide a sophisticated insight into the conceptualization, learning, and practice of critical thinking skills in each industry. By examining industry-specific differences, the study emphasizes the necessity for specialized training programs tailored to the unique demands of each sector. The uniqueness of this study lies in its comprehensive cross-sectoral analysis, offering a detailed comparative perspective on the role and impact of critical thinking across diverse professional landscapes. The results highlight critical thinking as a cornerstone of professional competence, supporting the development of the "Critical Reflections" program, which aims to provide intensive training adapted to sector-specific needs. Ultimately, this research underscores the importance of critical thinking in fostering adaptability, strategic decision-making, and innovative problem-solving across diverse professional landscapes, ensuring that professionals are equipped to meet contemporary challenges effectively.

Drone Integration in Last-Mile Delivery Operations

Purpose: This research examines the integration of drone technology into last-mile delivery operations, focusing on its impact on supply chain efficiency, cost reduction, and sustainability. The study explores operational challenges, such as air traffic management, payload limitations, regulatory compliance, and public perception, providing a comprehensive understanding of how drones can reshape last-mile logistics. Methodology: The study employs a multi-faceted approach, combining historical analysis, in-depth case studies, and scenario planning to assess the impact of drone technology on last-mile delivery efficiency, cost optimization, and accessibility. Data is gathered from industry reports, interviews with logistics professionals, and regulatory documents. Thematic analysis is conducted to identify critical patterns, while scenario-based modeling offers insight into the potential outcomes of various integration strategies. A comparative evaluation of existing last-mile delivery methods against drone-based delivery models is also provided. Findings: The research reveals that drone technology offers significant potential for enhancing last-mile delivery efficiency, particularly in urban areas and remote locations, aligning with findings from studies like those by Murray & Chu (2015). However, the study identifies considerable obstacles, including regulatory challenges, limited payload capacities, and public acceptance issues. Solutions such as airspace regulation frameworks, collaborative logistics networks, and advanced battery technologies are highlighted as critical enablers for successful drone integration. Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on drone technology's role in logistics by providing a comprehensive framework for businesses and policymakers to navigate the complexities of drone integration. It recommends actionable steps for integrating drones into last-mile delivery, bridging the gap between theoretical innovation and practical application. It provides policy recommendations for regulatory bodies to develop airspace management systems that support drone operations. For practitioners, the research offers a strategic guide to overcoming operational challenges, facilitating the adoption of drones as a sustainable solution for last-mile delivery.

Simulation of container discharge dynamics using modified cellular automata

In the field of physical logistics, efficient and precise control of material flow during the emptying of containers such as silos and wagons is crucial. This study introduces a not conventional cellular automaton model to simulate spillage from containers. The model is implemented using Excel macros, providing a user-friendly and accessible platform for logistics professionals. By modifying the traditional cellular automaton framework, the simulation can accurately represents the dynamics of material flow during container emptying processes. The proposed method allows for fine-tuned control over the spillage by integrating specific constraints and parameters, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing material loss. The versatility of the model makes it applicable to a wide range of logistical scenarios, demonstrating its potential as a valuable tool in physical logistics management.

An integer mathematical model proposal for an agile external milkrun system

A milkrun system is a cyclical material delivery system that enables frequent small-batch deliveries with short lead times and low inventories. The literature classifies milkrun systems into external and internal categories. External milkrun systems in agile production environments, on the other hand, have not received much attention in the literature thus far. This study presents an integer mathematical model for the cost minimisation of external milkrun tours and discusses agile external milkrun systems. In addition to minimising costs, the proposed mathematical model can determine the types and number of milkrun vehicles. This is an important advantage for logistics professionals. The proposed model was coded using the Lingo software, and its effectiveness was shown using both a real-world problem and randomly generated test problems. The proposed model found the best solution in a few seconds for some real-world and most test problems. The results have shown that the proposed mathematical model for external milkrun systems in agile environments is useful.

MATHEMATICAL MODELS AND ALGORITHMS IN LOGISTICS: REAL- WORLD APPLICATIONS AND AI IMPACT

Have you ever pondered the importance of mathematics in the field of logistics? Have you also reflected on whether a solid understanding of mathematical principles is crucial for achieving success in a logistics profession? This article explores the intersection of mathematics and logistics, shedding light on the indispensable role mathematics plays within the industry. By exploring practical applications, it provides insights into the mathematical concepts integral to the daily activities of logistics professionals. Whether aspiring to enter the field or carrying out further studies in logistics, this article offers a foundational understanding of mathematics' importance in logistics. In addition, we have also shown a case in which technological development and artificial intelligence are applied, where we have employed logistic regression, k-nearest neighbors, and random forest classifiers on data collected from Amazon to analyze customer reviews. Our results demonstrate that logistic regression outperformed the others, achieving an accuracy rate of 86.75%. This result is suggestive of the importance of this technique in building customer relations, particularly in their use in decision-making methods.

Construction and Implementation of a Digital System for Logistics Majors from the Perspective of Smart Education

Background: Faced with the new demand for logistics engineering talents in the modern logistics industry's mathematical transformation and upgrading, building an applied logistics engineering talent training system that meets the requirements of the new era is a key task of current teaching reform. Contribution: The contribution of this experiment is focuses on the current situation of school enterprise integration in school logistics engineering construction, and proposes a construction. Method: This experiment using framework method to strengthen the logistics engineering profession, clarify integration goals, build targeted curriculum systems, establish assessment and evaluation frameworks, and improve the mechanism of industry education integration. Results: The collaborative educational role of logistics professional construction and innovation and entrepreneurship education and cultivate more comprehensive logistics professionals. Based on this, this article will conduct a digital system for logistics majors from the perspective of smart education in vocational colleges under the background of intelligent logistics. Conclusion: Curriculum construction is built on a dynamic and authentic practical process, which reflects the logical interaction between curriculum builders and courses, shifting understanding from project logic to subjective logic

English communication strategies among Thai logistics professionals

Proficiency in English as a foreign language (EFL) holds significant importance in various professional domains, including the field of logistics. However, not all individuals proficient in EFL possess effective English communication skills. Hence, the objective of this research is to investigate the English communication strategies employed by Thai professionals working in the logistics industry. To receive participants' perspectives, a comprehensive approach involving questionnaires and focus-group interviews was employed. The survey results revealed that the most frequently utilized strategies encompassed rechecking, revising, identifying key concepts, and employing dictionaries, while the least commonly used strategies were self-development, guessing, word coinage, and the use of all-purpose words, respectively. Furthermore, the in-depth insights derived from the interviews revealed that participants employed English communication for diverse purposes, including email correspondence, meetings, ordering processes, and purchasing, thereby necessitating the utilization of distinct strategies for each of the four language skills. Remarkably, website translation tools emerged as vital resources for Thai logistics professionals, forming an integral component of their digital strategy. Ultimately, the findings of this study bear relevance to both pedagogical practices and business English training programs, with specific implications for the logistics industry.

A pattern of collaborative logistics during multiple crises

The prolonged COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine War (multiple crises or catastrophes) affected the logistics sector in the world, especially in developing countries. Collaborative logistics is a strategy to mitigate the negative impacts of multiple crises. Thus, this study aims to uncover the impact of multiple crises on logistics collaboration in developing countries in the case of Indonesia and to disclose the collaboration patterns among logistics companies in the country. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey of 183 logistics professionals working in logistics companies in Indonesia from June to November 2023. Of the 183 respondents, 148 observations were used in the statistical analysis using the Partial-Least Square–Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) with Rstudio. This study had the following findings: First, the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021) promoted domestic and international collaborations. Second, the latter days of the COVID-19 pandemic (2022–2023) promote less intensive collaboration at domestic and international levels due to the termination of some restrictions to contain the COVID-19 spread and the relative resiliency of the logistics sector. Third, the negative impact of the Russia-Ukraine War drove logistics companies to collaborate intensively at the domestic and international levels. Fourth, companies’ responses to multiple crises demonstrate a fluctuating collaboration pattern, depending on the severity of the crisis. Thus, it is suggested that maintaining intensive logistics collaboration is a strategy to gain resilience from unintended events that negatively affect the supply chain. This study has an academic contribution to the logistics and supply chain field, emphasising collaboration during crises in developing countries.

Examining Factors Influencing the Integration of Blockchain Technology in the Freight Logistics Sector of Pakistan

This study examines the blockchain usage of Pakistan's freight logistics industry. A structural equation model is used to explore latent dimensions such as perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, attitude, and behavioral intention. To understand the specific factors impacting technology adoption decisions in this geographical and industrial location, a diverse sample of 245 Pakistan goods logistics sector operators will be explored. The findings reveal that perceived ease of use influences logistics professionals' behavioral intentions. The significance of clever and user-friendly interfaces emphasizes technology experiences that satisfy the expectations of Pakistani goods logistics workers. However, the perceived utility has a complicated relationship with behavioral intention, emphasizing the need for targeted actions to boost the perceived value of Blockchain technology in Pakistan's logistics business. Subjective norm is a major predictor of behavioral intention. This demonstrates how social and cultural factors influence Pakistani logistics workers' ambitions to use Blockchain. The correlation matrix and covariance analysis demonstrate that there are significant positive relationships between attitude, behavioral intention, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and subjective norm. This detailed examination of the adoption environment offers practitioners, policymakers, and academics context-specific insights, setting the framework for informed freight logistics technology adoption and innovation activities in Pakistan.

Examining Factors Influencing the Integration of Blockchain Technology in the Freight Logistics Sector of Pakistan

This study examines the blockchain usage of Pakistan's freight logistics industry. A structural equation model is used to explore latent dimensions such as perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, attitude, and behavioral intention. To understand the specific factors impacting technology adoption decisions in this geographical and industrial location, a diverse sample of 245 Pakistan goods logistics sector operators will be explored. The findings reveal that perceived ease of use influences logistics professionals' behavioral intentions. The significance of clever and user-friendly interfaces emphasizes technology experiences that satisfy the expectations of Pakistani goods logistics workers. However, the perceived utility has a complicated relationship with behavioral intention, emphasizing the need for targeted actions to boost the perceived value of Blockchain technology in Pakistan's logistics business. Subjective norm is a major predictor of behavioral intention. This demonstrates how social and cultural factors influence Pakistani logistics workers' ambitions to use Blockchain. The correlation matrix and covariance analysis demonstrate that there are significant positive relationships between attitude, behavioral intention, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and subjective norm. This detailed examination of the adoption environment offers practitioners, policymakers, and academics context-specific insights, setting the framework for informed freight logistics technology adoption and innovation activities in Pakistan.

The role of technology in supply chain risk management: Innovations and challenges in logistics

The review delves into the pivotal role of technology in revolutionizing supply chain risk management practices within the logistics sector. The paper explores the myriad of risks faced by modern supply chains, ranging from natural disasters and geopolitical tensions to cyber threats and disruptions in global trade patterns. It investigates how technological innovations such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics are reshaping traditional risk management approaches by providing real-time visibility, data-driven insights, and proactive mitigation strategies. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study examines the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing supply chain resilience, agility, and responsiveness to unforeseen disruptions. It highlights the benefits of leveraging blockchain technology for secure and transparent supply chain transactions, IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of goods in transit, AI algorithms for predictive risk modeling, and predictive analytics for identifying and mitigating potential disruptions before they escalate. Furthermore, the paper delves into the challenges and complexities associated with adopting and integrating these technologies into existing supply chain processes, including interoperability issues, data privacy concerns, and the need for specialized expertise. By providing practical insights, case studies, and best practices, the study aims to empower logistics professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to harness the full potential of technology-driven solutions in managing supply chain risks effectively and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly uncertain and volatile global environment.

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN SUPPLY CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT: INNOVATIONS AND CHALLENGES IN LOGISTICS

The review delves into the pivotal role of technology in revolutionizing supply chain risk management practices within the logistics sector. The paper explores the myriad of risks faced by modern supply chains, ranging from natural disasters and geopolitical tensions to cyber threats and disruptions in global trade patterns. It investigates how technological innovations such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics are reshaping traditional risk management approaches by providing real-time visibility, data-driven insights, and proactive mitigation strategies. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study examines the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing supply chain resilience, agility, and responsiveness to unforeseen disruptions. It highlights the benefits of leveraging blockchain technology for secure and transparent supply chain transactions, IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of goods in transit, AI algorithms for predictive risk modeling, and predictive analytics for identifying and mitigating potential disruptions before they escalate. Furthermore, the paper delves into the challenges and complexities associated with adopting and integrating these technologies into existing supply chain processes, including interoperability issues, data privacy concerns, and the need for specialized expertise. By providing practical insights, case studies, and best practices, the study aims to empower logistics professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to harness the full potential of technology-driven solutions in managing supply chain risks effectively and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly uncertain and volatile global environment.
 Keywords: Technology, Supply Chain, Risk Management, Innovations, Challenges, Logistics.

Navigating Sustainability in Malaysian Logistics: An Exploration of Operational Factors and Sustainable Logistics Performance

As the global logistics industry undergoes a paradigm shift towards sustainability, this research investigates the intricate relationships between key operational dimensions and sustainable logistics performance within the context of the Malaysian logistics sector, with a focus on Selangor. The study adopts a cross-sectional research design and employs a stratified random sampling method to select 150 members from a list of 4,000 logistics service association members. A structured questionnaire, encompassing green customer relationships, sustainable transportation, eco-friendly warehouse operations, digital transformation initiatives, and sustainable logistics performance, is utilized to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. The study aims to analyze the data using multiple regression analysis to discern the statistical relationships between independent and dependent variables. This research not only contributes to the body of knowledge in sustainable logistics but also provides actionable insights for logistics professionals and policymakers in Selangor, guiding the industry towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. The findings from this study is that Green Customer Relationship, Green Transportation and Green Operations positively impact the Sustainable Logistics Performance.

A Three-Stage Stochastic Model to Improve Resilience with Lateral Transshipment in Multi-Period Emergency Logistics

Driven by the growing threat of natural disasters caused by climate change, there is an urgent need to strengthen the emergency rescue logistics network. However, insufficient research has been conducted on optimizing both pre-disaster preparation and post-disaster response, resulting in lower resilience and inefficiency of emergency logistics management. To this end, this study explores the optimization of emergency rescue resource allocation and transportation network design, considering the uncertainty and multi-period nature of natural disaster rescue. By employing a lateral transshipment strategy, a three-stage stochastic programming model is established, which aims to balance economic benefits with the need for devastations, thereby enhancing the resilience of the logistics network. Numerical experiments verify the effectiveness of the proposed model with different instances and the performance of the lateral transshipment strategy by comparing it with a two-stage stochastic programming model. Sensitivity analysis is performed on the costs of constructing a depot and the penalties for unmet needs. The analysis yielded valuable insights that can be used to enhance emergency rescue operations, supply chain network design, and logistics network design. The research outcome can benefit emergency responders and logistics professionals in optimizing their operations.

Impact of Mathematical Models in IT System Design and Optimization

This research investigates the crucial role of mathematical models in designing and optimizing modern IT systems. The paper explores how mathematical tools simplify complex systems, enabling efficient design and improved understanding. The impact of mathematical models extends beyond initial design. The research emphasizes the importance of maintaining these models throughout a system's life cycle to ensure ongoing optimization. Fuzzy Logic Controllers and Coverage Path Planning (CPP) algorithms are highlighted as key examples of how mathematical models are utilized in IT system design, particularly for robotic guided vehicles. The research focuses on real-world applications of CPP and the role mathematical models play in finding optimal solutions. This study aims to benefit professionals in robotics research, logistics, and process automation. It explores how mathematical models can contribute to overcoming challenges in modern industries, such as increased production efficiency and reduced costs.

ОПТИМІЗАЦІЯ ЛОГІСТИКИ ТА РЕАЛІЗАЦІЇ ПРОДУКЦІЇ В СІЛЬСЬКОГОСПОДАРСЬКИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВАХ НА УМОВАХ КООПЕРАЦІЇ

This extensive article delves into the critical importance of optimizing transport logistics within the agricultural sector, providing a thorough examination of key algorithms and advanced techniques aimed at significantly improving industry efficiency. The primary focus is dedicated to the meticulous selection of optimal routes, involving a detailed review of state-of-the-art routing algorithms and dynamic programming techniques. The article systematically guides readers through concrete steps for determining optimal delivery routes, considering a myriad of factors such as distance, road conditions, transport volume, type, delivery deadlines, and transportation costs. The complexity of this task necessitates an in-depth analysis of various elements, and the article provides valuable insights into how these considerations collectively contribute to the overall efficiency of agricultural transport logistics. Emphasizing the pivotal role of effective resource management, the article underscores the need for strategic allocation, transportation, and utilization of diverse resources, including transport assets, human resources, equipment, time, and more. The integration of modern technologies is identified as a crucial component for achieving optimization goals, ensuring real-time data analysis, efficient communication, and adaptive decision-making. As a practical outcome, the article offers strategic recommendations for the implementation of optimization approaches within the agricultural logistics framework. These recommendations encompass innovative solutions for route planning, resource allocation, and technology integration. The overarching goal is to enhance the viability and productivity of agriculture, positioning logistical optimization as a key driver for sustainable growth in the industry. The synthesis of algorithmic strategies and cutting-edge technologies is positioned as instrumental in fostering advancements within the agricultural landscape. The article serves as a comprehensive guide, catering to various stakeholders, including farmers, logistics professionals, and policymakers, who aspire to leverage logistical optimization for transformative outcomes in agriculture. In conclusion, this in-depth exploration not only highlights the immediate benefits of optimizing transport logistics but also underscores the long-term sustainability and growth potential it brings to the agricultural sector. The integration of advanced algorithms and technologies is positioned as a cornerstone for addressing the evolving challenges and demands of modern agriculture.

Factors Influencing Blockchain Technologies Adoption in Supply Chain Management and Logistic Sectors: Cultural Compatibility of Blockchain Solutions as Moderator

The rapid advancements in blockchain technology have heralded a new era for various industries, including the supply chain and logistics. However, despite the promising opportunities, the adoption of blockchain within supply chain and logistics still needs to be explored, especially in Saudi Arabia. This study investigated the impact of technological, organizational, and environmental factors on blockchain adoption among Saudi supply chain and logistics companies. The study also tested cultural compatibility’s moderating role in solving blockchain issues. A quantitative method approach was employed, utilizing a survey questionnaire. Data were gathered from various stakeholders across the industry, including managers, IT experts, and logistics professionals. The findings indicate that relative advantage, top management support, and competitors influence blockchain technology adoption significantly and positively. However, openness to innovation use has an insignificant effect on adoption. Government support demonstrates the strongest positive influence on blockchain adoption, whereas vendor orientation and support showed an insignificant impact. Both blockchain technology adoption and the cultural compatibility of blockchain solutions significantly enhance operational excellence, but the moderating effect of cultural compatibility of blockchain solutions shows no effect on operational excellence. This study stands out as one of the first explorations into blockchain adoption in the supply chain and logistics sector within the Saudi context, identifying the factors contributing to blockchain’s successful implementation for operational excellence.

Awareness of green logistics technology, certification, and standards by logistics practitioners at Chinese e-commerce company, Jing Dong

This study examined the awareness of the environmental and sustainability impacts of green logistics technologies, standards, and certifications by logistics practitioners at the Chinese e-commerce company, Jing Dong. 309 surveys based on questionnaires were gathered using stratified snowball sampling. They were then encoded and examined through descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression techniques. The outcomes indicated that roughly 33 % of the organization's logistics professionals understand the beneficial effects of logistics operations on the environment, and an equivalent proportion comprehended the significance of sustainable development. Additionally, the classifications of logistics operations and years of industry expertise significantly have influenced various aspects of green logistics technology, standards, and certification. The research also has indicated that the acceptance of green logistics technology is contingent on the backgrounds and classifications of the company's logistics experts. This suggests that Jing Dong should strengthen the implementation of relevant logistics policies and raise awareness among logistics practitioners regarding green logistics technology, standards, and certification.