Smartphones as enabler of Supply Chain Event Management

Nikolaus Tellian, Hans-Christian Graf

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingsConference contribution

Abstract

Purpose of Paper: As Supply Chain Transparency is a key success factor for effective Supply Chain Event Management (SCEM), many companies want to track & trace their individual orders. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) -based tracking & tracing systems try to cope with this trend in order to improve gained transport information. However, these systems are mostly linked to proprietary business solutions and do not provide online status information of their loads. The new SCEM concept uses proven internet-based technologies to overcome given media breaks and addresses existing obstacles, especially in the fields of intermodal transports. With the integration of common smart phone technologies and transformation of social network principles into the professional field of logistics, a state-of-the-art toolkit is being developed for complex supply networks. Researched benefits result in a quick and interactive information flow with regards to the transparency of transports and shipped items. Gathered information can be published quickly to all relevant stakeholders in real time (like the sender, the shipper or the receiver of a load). Researched case examples underline easy to gain operational benefits in SCEM. This paper intends to demonstrate how supply chain quality parameters can be improved in the day-to-day transport operations. Gained practical findings result in better preparation of loading and unloading processes, improved calculations of realistic times of arrival and higher quality of dispatching processes. A set of performance indicators has been developed upon the results of the prototype and which can be for future use. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: Inspired by the problems caused by limited visibility of supply streams, a technology platform was to be modeled and implemented as a prototype, in order to open previously unavailable and innovative information, navigation and collaboration options, that can be used in cross company delivery processes. The research approach was based on empirical analysis of bottlenecks in existing transport management systems. A series of semi-structured interviews supported the development of a new technological perspective for effective information handling in SCEM. Findings: Researched case examples underline easy to gain operational benefits in Supply Chain Execution like the optimization of truck fill rates, transport lead time, idle times and capacities. Presented theoretical findings result in practical Supply Chain improvements like: A better preparation of loading and unloading processes, more accurate calculation of times of arrival and a higher quality of dispatch processes. A set of Supply Chain improvement factors has been developed and will be presented by this paper.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationManagement of Global and Regional Supply Chain – Research and Concepts
Number of pages17
Publication statusPublished - 2011
Event6th Scientific Conference - Economy and Efficiency – contemporary solutions in logistics and production - Posen, Polen, Poland
Duration: 16 Nov 201118 Nov 2011
http://konferencja.logistyka-produkcja.pl/en/

Conference

Conference6th Scientific Conference - Economy and Efficiency – contemporary solutions in logistics and production
Country/TerritoryPoland
CityPosen, Polen
Period16.11.201118.11.2011
Internet address

Keywords

  • Track and Trace
  • GPS
  • Supply Chain Transparency
  • Supply Chain Agility
  • Location Based Services

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