Current logistics operations and information systems used cannot deal with the emerging challenges. Globalization, e-commerce, cyberthreats, cumbersome organizational structures, startups disrupting the business landscape and constantly higher customer demands push companies into adopting emerging technologies which enable them to increase digitalization and automation.
The fourth industrial revolution enables companies to proceed in digitalizing their operations, as building a flexible organizational structure is a challenge that needs to be addressed and adopting the digital enterprise model is a crucial step before implementing the new age technologies, as companies must add the elements of flexibility and adaptability in order to deal with the challenges at hand.
Logistics 4.0, a term derived from the combination of Industry 4.0 technologies and innovations and their application on inbound and outbound logistics is a narrower concept than Industry 4.0, as it focuses on typical features, such as automation and digitalization. The technologies most commonly utilized are the Internet of Things, Big Data analytics, Augmented Reality, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Advanced Robotics. IoT is the pinnacle of those technologies, as it enables new data streams creation from sources previously being non-exploitable and allows companies to monitor and control mechanizations, fleets etc. by a central system.
The Master thesis presents a framework that companies may follow for a Logistics 4.0 technologies implementation. The framework presents five necessary phases for the implementation, enabling the company to properly deal with the challenges that emerge. Resistance to change, high investment costs, HR-related issues, data privacy issues, IT infrastructure requirements, the public’s opinion about revolutionary technologies and regulations are challenges that must be dealt with for the implementation to be smoothly completed.
The case studies analysis that follows showcase the advantages and benefits of implementing Logistics 4.0 technologies. Finally, the outcome of the Master thesis is that the framework may be tested in a real-world environment for further research on the subject.
Table of Contents
- Preface
- Acknowledgements
- Table of Contents
- Chapter 1 Introduction
- The Role of Information Technology in Logistics Operations
- Scope and Objectives of the Thesis
- Methodology
- Thesis Outline
- Chapter 2 Logistics Operations: Processes and Characteristics
- Introduction
- Supply Chain and Logistics Management
- Warehousing and Storage
- The role of a Warehouse
- Warehouse Operations
- Receiving and Storing
- Replenishment and Order Picking
- Packing
- Dispatching
- Warehouse Management System
- Transportation
- Transport Modes
Objectives and Key Themes
This thesis aims to explore the role of information technology in modern logistics operations, specifically focusing on the impact of Industry 4.0 technologies. It investigates the processes and characteristics of logistics operations, examining warehousing, transportation, and the integration of warehouse management systems.
- The role of information technology in optimizing logistics operations.
- An analysis of key processes within logistics, including warehousing and transportation.
- The impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on logistics efficiency and effectiveness.
- Examination of warehouse management systems and their contribution to streamlined operations.
- An overview of various transportation modes and their implications for logistics strategies.
Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1 Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the thesis by outlining the significance of information technology within logistics operations. It clearly defines the scope and objectives of the research, detailing the methodology employed and providing a structured overview of the subsequent chapters. The introduction establishes the context for understanding the role of technological advancements in modern logistics and hints at the key themes that will be explored in the following chapters.
Chapter 2 Logistics Operations: Processes and Characteristics: This chapter delves into the core processes and characteristics of logistics operations. It begins with an introduction to the supply chain and logistics management, providing a foundational understanding. The main focus is on warehousing and storage, examining the role of a warehouse, its operations, and specific activities such as receiving, storing, replenishment, order picking, packing, and dispatching. The chapter further explores warehouse management systems (WMS) and their vital role in optimizing warehouse efficiency. Finally, it examines transportation, including an overview of different transport modes and their impact on logistics strategies. The chapter integrates the various sub-sections to create a holistic picture of the complexities and interdependencies within logistics processes.
Keywords
Logistics 4.0, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Transportation, Warehouse Management Systems, Industry 4.0, Logistics Operations, Process Optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the purpose of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive preview of a thesis focusing on the role of information technology in modern logistics operations, particularly within the context of Industry 4.0. It includes the table of contents, objectives, key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
What topics are covered in the Table of Contents?
The table of contents includes a preface, acknowledgements, the table of contents itself, Chapter 1 (Introduction) covering the role of IT in logistics, the thesis's scope, objectives, methodology, and outline, and Chapter 2 (Logistics Operations: Processes and Characteristics) focusing on supply chain management, warehousing (including receiving, storing, replenishment, order picking, packing, and dispatching), warehouse management systems, and transportation.
What are the main objectives and key themes of the thesis?
The thesis aims to explore the impact of information technology, especially Industry 4.0 technologies, on modern logistics. Key themes include optimizing logistics operations through IT, analyzing key logistics processes (warehousing and transportation), assessing the impact of Industry 4.0, examining warehouse management systems, and reviewing various transportation modes and their implications for logistics strategies.
What is covered in Chapter 1: Introduction?
Chapter 1 sets the stage, highlighting the importance of IT in logistics, defining the research's scope and objectives, detailing the methodology, and providing a structured overview of the subsequent chapters. It establishes the context for understanding technological advancements' role in modern logistics.
What is discussed in Chapter 2: Logistics Operations: Processes and Characteristics?
Chapter 2 delves into the core processes and characteristics of logistics operations, covering supply chain and logistics management, warehousing (with a detailed breakdown of warehouse operations), warehouse management systems (WMS), and transportation (including various transport modes). It aims to present a holistic view of the interdependencies within logistics processes.
What are the keywords associated with this thesis?
Keywords include Logistics 4.0, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Transportation, Warehouse Management Systems, Industry 4.0, Logistics Operations, and Process Optimization.
What is the intended audience for this document?
This document is intended for academic use, supporting the analysis of themes within the thesis in a structured and professional manner.
Where can I find the full thesis?
The full thesis is not included in this preview. This document serves as a summary and overview of its contents.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Dimitris Karampourniotis (Autor:in), 2018, Logistics 4.0. Applications, Trends and Challenges, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/490856
