In the course, LGMT 685 Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management, the assigned exercise, Module 8.5 Research Paper, was aimed at studying the contribution of the new and emerging technology on logistics and supply chain management. Technologies are crucial in creating strategic opportunities, and it was important to research how they could be used to develop competitive advantages. The study was not focused on a specific company but on how the logistics industry, in general, has digitized its operations to achieve transparency and customer satisfaction. The primary objective of the paper was to explore and analyze various logistics and supply chain technologies to understand how instrumental they are in improving the industry.
Knowledge Application Area: Integrated Logistics Support
The research paper can be categorized under the knowledge application area of integrated logistics support (ILS) because supply chain and logistics are focused on the lifecycles in product distribution. As a manager, it is important to understand the technical processes required in designing the best system and infrastructure capable of effectively supporting related activities (Kersten et al., 2021). Successful logistics and supply chain companies rely on professional and specialized teams to accomplish their distribution goals. This is only possible with the existence of an elaborate structure that takes into consideration all logistics elements.
The main aspects of ILS services include acquisition logistics, lifecycle logistics, technical support, and information technology (IT) services. Although the components are independent, they have to be used coherently, which can be made easier with the application of various new and emerging technologies. For instance, the accurate tracking of items being shipped and the transportation mode used would not be possible without the barcode technology crucial in procurement operations (Kersten et al., 2021). The study fits the ILS category because the evolving technologies are key in harmonizing all supply chain and logistics operations.
Methodologies: Quality Control and Information Technology
The research paper incorporates the methodologies of quality control and information technology because, as in any other industry, quality assurance is of great significance, and the application of modern technology is instrumental in its achievement. Using standards is crucial in ensuring the transported goods are safe and meet customers’ needs (Arndt & Lanza, 2016). However, there are instances where faulty and harmful items are transported intentionally or mistakenly. In such instances, companies can use a combination of barcodes and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to trace unsafe shipments.
Attempting to look for a batch of items that do not meet the required standards without the mentioned technologies will be tedious and costly (Arndt & Lanza, 2016). RFIDs are also essential in conducting regular inspections to prevent losses and thefts. Similarly, robotics and artificial intelligence can be used to handle the movement of bulky items to keep workers safe. Standards are needed to ensure both the company and customers gain from supply chain services, and technologies enhance the process of quality control.
Planning Level: Operational
The technical elements of the paper’s discussion classify it under the operational planning level. The successful implementation of effective technologies in supply chain and logistics companies requires more than strategic planning. Integrating RFID, robotics, cloud technology, and very-small-aperture terminal (VSAT), needs a detailed outline on what the involved firm’s focus is in its operations. The purchase, installation, and use of the discussed emerging technologies requires the right team of experts and can also be costly. Consequently, operational planning is evident in the research because introducing new technologies is a practical exercise and its benefits and challenges can be noted quickly.
References
Arndt, T., & Lanza, G. (2016). Planning support for the design of quality control strategies in global production networks. Procedia CIRP, 41, 675-680. Web.
Kersten, W., Blecker, T., & Ringle, C. (2021). Digitalization in supply chain management and logistics: Smart and digital solutions for an industry 4.0 environment. Proceedings of the Hamburg International Conference of Logistics (HICL). Web.