第一章Logistics.ppt

Chapter 1 Logistics What Is Logistics？ After completing a commercial transaction, logistics will execute the transfer of goods from the supplier (seller) to the customer (buyer) in the most cost-effective manner[1]. This is the definition of logistics management. During the transfer process, hardware such as logistics facilities and equipment (logistics carriers) are needed, as well as information control and standardization. In addition, supports from the government and logistics association should be in place. Logistics is a unique global “pipeline” [2] that operates 24 hours a day; seven days a week and 52 weeks a year, planning and coordinating the transport and delivery of products and service to customers all over the world. Coming into being with the advent of civilization, logistics is anything but a newborn baby[3]. However, when it comes to modem logistics, most professionals in the business consider it one of the most challenging and exciting jobs, invisible as it is[4] Modern logistics is related to the effective and efficient flow of materials and information that are of vital importance to customers and clients in various sections of the economic society, which may include but by no means is limited to: packaging, warehousing, material handling, inventory, transport, forecasting, strategic planning, and customer service. “Logistics is that part of the supply chain process that plans, implements and controls the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, service and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption to meet customers’ requirements.” Although this definition fails to incorporate all specific terms used in the study of logistics, it does reflect the need for total movement management from point of material procurement to location of finished product distribution. Components of a Logistics System A logistics system can be made up of many different functional activities, some of which are described briefly bel