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Article
Publication date: 13 March 2020

Đurđica M. Stojanović and Jelena Ivetić

This study aims to illuminate the relationship between the logistic performance indexes (LPIs) of trade countries and sharing obligations related to logistics services in delivery…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to illuminate the relationship between the logistic performance indexes (LPIs) of trade countries and sharing obligations related to logistics services in delivery among parties in international sales contracts.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive one-year database of Serbian international trade flows is used. The LPIs of 148 countries are related to the Incoterms® rules in international sales contracts that designate the division of obligations between exporters and importers for moving goods. Empirical data were subjected to statistical analysis, where nonparametric correlation and inferential methods were applied. The differences between countries with the highest and lowest LPIs were also examined.

Findings

LPIs positively correlate with logistics commitments in exports and imports. Their impact on the choice of Incoterms® rules differs among the groups of trade terms. Waterway and D-terms are the most sensitive. LPIs of trade countries clearly impact “emission” and “attraction” of the most extended sellers' delivery obligation “packages,” expressed in D rules.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical data are limited to a single country. Further research must explore the relative impact of macrologistic factors on exporters and importers' logistics commitments for building better decision-making support tools.

Practical implications

The results may support suppliers and buyers in sharing their experiences on Incoterms® practice and encourage more rational than intuitive decisions.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study to quantitatively evidence the sensitivity of groups of Incoterms® rules on the macrologistic environment of trade countries.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 September 2018

Jan Hendrik Havenga and Zane Paul Simpson

The purpose of this paper is to present the results of South Africa’s national freight demand model and related logistics cost models, and to illustrate the application of the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the results of South Africa’s national freight demand model and related logistics cost models, and to illustrate the application of the modelling outputs to inform macrologistics policy.

Design/methodology/approach

Spatially and sectorally disaggregated supply and demand data are developed using the input-output (I-O) model of the economy as a platform, augmented by actual data. Supply and demand interaction is translated into freight flows via a gravity model. The logistics costs model is a bottom-up aggregation of logistics-related costs for these freight flows.

Findings

South Africa’s logistics costs are higher than in developed countries. Road freight volumes constitute 80 per cent of long-distance corridor freight, while road transport contributes more than 80 per cent to the country’s transport costs. These challenges raise concerns regarding the competitiveness of international trade, as well as the impact of transport externalities. The case studies highlight that domestic logistics costs are the biggest cost contributor to international trade logistics costs and can be reduced through inter alia modal shift. Modal shift can be induced through the internalisation of freight externality costs. Results show that externality cost internalisation can eradicate the societal cost of freight transport in South Africa without increasing macroeconomic freight costs.

Research limitations/implications

Systematic spatially disaggregated commodity-level data are limited. There is however a wealth of supply, demand and freight flow information collected by the public and private sector. Initiatives to create an appreciation of the intrinsic value of such information and to leverage data sources will improve freight demand modelling in emerging economies.

Originality/value

A spatially and sectorally disaggregated national freight demand model, and related logistics costs models, utilising actual and modelled data, balanced via the national I-O model, provides opportunities for increased accuracy of outputs and diverse application possibilities.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Freight Transport Modelling
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78190-286-8

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 8 September 2023

Youssef Malhouni and Charif Mabrouki

The purpose of this study is to analyze the challenges encountered by international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) operating in armed conflicts within the Democratic…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the challenges encountered by international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) operating in armed conflicts within the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Central African Republic (CAR). Through a 20-month fieldwork analysis, this research maps logistical risks and highlights key obstacles on the ground for successful humanitarian deployments in dynamically changing and complex environments. The study brings together academics and practitioners, providing practical and concrete recommendations for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to focus on in the conflict zones studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative and quantitative methods, this research provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by INGOs in conflict zones. After collecting data from the field, including interviews with key stakeholders and on-the-ground observations, the data analysis uses software tools such as Text Analysis Markup System analyzer and Macbeth. By adhering to ethical principles and incorporating a reflexive analysis, the study sheds light on the multidimensional nature of successful humanitarian deployments.

Findings

The primary risk in all armed conflict zones, including the DRC and CAR, is insecurity. However, to achieve a successful humanitarian deployment in such contexts, a multidimensional approach is required. This involves first securing the acceptance of local communities and conflict parties, which can be achieved through a deep understanding of both political and customary structures, with a focus on respecting key engagement leaders. Sustainability also plays a crucial role, and NGOs must maintain a secure stock of energy and provide greater initiative for on-the-ground managers to meet the expressed needs of beneficiary populations and involve them from the planning stage onwards. Finally, effective communication, cooperation and collaboration with United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs are essential to overcome procurement, technical and security risks, particularly during the initial deployment phases.

Originality/value

This study provides an illustration of the uncommon practice of conducting collaborative research in humanitarian settings amidst two neighboring areas of armed conflict. The authors identified 268 common risk factors across eight categories during five deployment phases. To analyze these risks based on criticality and NGO responsiveness, the authors used a multicriteria method. This approach allowed the authors to validate unanimous judgments, resulting in valuable insights and concrete recommendations.

Details

Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-6747

Keywords

Content available

Abstract

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Article
Publication date: 16 June 2023

Matias G. Enz and Douglas M. Lambert

Grounded in contingency theory and strategic fit theory, the goal for this research was to determine if managers differentiate in terms of the degree of partnership when…

Abstract

Purpose

Grounded in contingency theory and strategic fit theory, the goal for this research was to determine if managers differentiate in terms of the degree of partnership when allocating resources for planning, joint operating controls, communication and other management components to relationships and if this differentiation is based on the Partnership Model (Lambert et al., 1996).

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 381 managers representing 31 relationships participated in one-and-a-half-day partnership meetings, and the authors analyzed how the management components were implemented in each relationship compared to the recommendations in the Partnership Model.

Findings

Managers did not differentiate types of partnerships which led to over-resourcing relationships with low potential and under-resourcing those with the highest potential for creating value. The principles of contingency theory and strategic fit were not used for managing relationships.

Research limitations/implications

Contingency theory combined with the relationship view suggests that management components should not be implemented at the same level for all relationships, but in the 31 relationships studied different partnership types were not managed based on their potential.

Practical implications

The research reinforces the need for a formal structure like the Partnership Model to establish joint goals for a relationship and guide management in implementation.

Originality/value

Effective supply chain management depends on the ability of managers to differentiate among partnership types and fit relational mechanisms that are appropriate. However, researchers tend to generalize their findings to all partnerships regardless of potential. The authors found support for the Partnership Model published in IJLM in 1996 as a method to resource different types of partnerships following the contingency perspective and strategic fit theory.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 35 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 February 2018

Suman Niranjan, Stephen R. Spulick and Katrina Savitskie

The purpose of this paper is to conduct an exploratory study that will assist supply chain firms in the development of partner satisfaction, flexibility, and supply chain…

1204

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conduct an exploratory study that will assist supply chain firms in the development of partner satisfaction, flexibility, and supply chain performance. The authors examine how the interaction of information exchange, partner interaction, knowledge sharing and flexibility as mediated through partner satisfaction effectuates firm performance. The goal of this research is to answer the supply chain managers’ need to better understand where to invest their time and effort to get improved firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was tested with panel data from 105 experienced, US-based supply chain managers. Structural equation modeling using partial least squares approach was utilized to conduct the analysis.

Findings

The results provide crucial evidence that simple information exchange among supply chain partners does not result in improvements in firm performance or partner satisfaction, but, when mediated through the flexibility construct, it does. Further, the use of integration tools has a moderating effect on the relationship between flexibility and firm performance. The results suggest that working closely with supply chain partners helps ensure improved relationship satisfaction, and can reduce issues that can impact firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical research presented requires additional validation though larger sample data from supply chain managers.

Practical implications

This study stresses on the importance of managers using information exchange, partner interaction, and knowledge sharing as a means of improving their firm’s indirect influence on firm performance through flexibility and integration tools.

Originality/value

This is one of the few studies in the supply chain literature that integrates flexibility as a mediator variable. Additionally, this study introduces the new construct of integration tools to the supply chain literature.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2005

Susan A. Sherer

To introduce a broader concept for supply‐chain management (SCM), the notion of value network advocacy.

14248

Abstract

Purpose

To introduce a broader concept for supply‐chain management (SCM), the notion of value network advocacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The historical roots and the traditional terms used to describe SCM are explored to show how their meanings have led to specific types of information systems to support SCM. The limitations of these systems are demonstrated with case studies. Then the concept of value network advocacy is introduced to address these limitations, and implications of this term are explored.

Findings

The term SCM has its historical roots in the control of fulfillment activities that support the linear physical flow of goods from suppliers to manufacturers to distributors to retailers. Consequently many information systems (IS) applications that support the supply chain have a similar focus. These systems often separate supply from demand management and focus on linear information flows. Often they are implemented without reengineering business processes. A broader concept, value network advocacy, better describes the needs of business today. It is suggested that adoption of this concept in organizations will be limited not by technology, but by lack of trust mechanisms and metrics.

Practical implications

The adoption of the broader concept of value network advocacy will enable companies to focus more on developing adaptive networks that support customer needs.

Originality/value

The paper introduces the concept of value network advocacy which can guide e‐supply chain development to support a more integrated customer‐focused notion of flexible networks that provide value.

Details

Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, vol. 10 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-8546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 November 2017

Steve LeMay, Marilyn M. Helms, Bob Kimball and Dave McMahon

The purpose of this paper is to gather the current definitions of supply chain management in practical and analytical usage, to develop standards for assessing definitions and to…

8990

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to gather the current definitions of supply chain management in practical and analytical usage, to develop standards for assessing definitions and to apply these standards to the most readily available definitions of the term.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, the authors gathered the current definitions of supply chain management in practical and analytical usage from journals, textbooks, universities, and industry associations and online.

Findings

The research ends with proposed definitions for consideration. Discussion and areas for future research are included.

Research limitations/implications

Involved organizations, supply chain management programs in higher education, and professional and certifying organizations in the field need to meet and work together to research consensus on the final definition of the field, realizing that definitions can evolve, but also recognizing that a starting point is needed in this rapidly growing area.

Practical implications

The authors argue, quite simply, that a consensus definition of supply chain management is unlikely as long as we continue offering and accepting definitions that are technically unsound. Many of the current definitions violate several principles of good definitions. For these reasons, they are either empty, too restrictive, or too expansive. Until we come across or develop a definition that overcomes these limitations and agree on it, then we will still search for “the” definition without finding it. The field will become more crowded with definitions, but less certain, and progress will be restricted.

Originality/value

Theoreticians, researchers, and practitioners in a discipline require key terms in a field to share a nominal definition and prefer to have a shared real or essential definition. Yet in supply chain management, we find no such shared definition, real or nominal. Even the Council of Supply Chain Management Professional offers its definition with the caveat: “The supply chain management (SCM) profession has continued to change and evolve to fit the needs of the growing global supply chain. With the supply chain covering a broad range of disciplines, the definition of what is a supply chain can be unclear” (CSCMP, 2016).

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 28 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

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