Abstract: Major change efforts, such as business process redesign and transformation of the supply chain, can usefully be linked to an organizational learning approach. Radical change stands a far greater chance of success if attention is first paid to overall organizational readiness. Suggests a framework for first conducting a “change audit” using a holistic and systemic view of the firm. Concepts of the learning organization can then be applied to increase flexibility and increase capacity to withstand and exploit unexpected and rapid change. Makes recommendations for successfully combining a learning approach to strategy with proactive and integrated logistics management.

Abstract: One of the enabling factors of effective supply‐chain management is the effective use of information technology (IT). Highlights a number of IT trends which can be grouped together as four key themes. These four key themes affect the way in which technology is used to support logistics operations in order to deliver competitive advantage. Shows how some of these themes have been developed and utilized to provide an in‐cab computing system which delivers competitive advantage to Exel Logistics. Concludes by showing how the four themes will support future trends in logistics.

Abstract: Highlights the problems encountered by a traditional supply chain system and shows how these problems can be eradicated by implementing an integrated supply chain. Discusses the workings of an integrated supply chain with the example of a US sports clothing manufacturer. Concludes by including a supply chain diagnostic guide which can be used to assess the efficiency of a company′s supply chain.

Abstract: Proposes that, due to the changing market, companies can no longer work with the logistic systems of the past but must develop new logistic concepts, logistic management and control systems to support the new concepts. Discusses the importance of order penetration point (OPP) within the development of time‐based management and control systems. Concludes that creativity in product development, production and distribution must be based on strong modern logistical foundations to survive in the competitive market.

Abstract: Many companies have developed corporate database systems and/or management information systems, some have established intelligence units. However, the systems often fail to scan the external environment to which the companies are exposed, and fail to yield meaningful intelligence, thus overwhelming managers with internal data. Argues that to address the information needs of top marketing managers, the environmental factors that have immediate effects on the company′s operation should be identified. Computer‐based information systems could play an important role in collecting environmental information from various sources; however, in interpreting data and disseminating intelligence to marketing managers, a human‐computer mixed system is essentially required. The system would be used in conjunction with a corporate database system to present intelligence to marketing managers, so as to keep them instantly informed, reinforce their knowledge learning, and support their decisions. Highlights the critical fac...

Abstract: Industrial marketing is generally viewed from the vantage point of firms marketing to other firms. Yet organizations devote extensive resources to situations where managers market their capabilities to other units within the same firm. Presents a case study of industrial health and safety to emphasize internal marketing concepts that managers and staff professionals should use to strengthen their internal contribution to company objectives. The case has implications for managers who deal with internal marketing problems of many in‐house services such as information systems, market research, data processing, education and training and other functions. Staff unit managers in a range of disciplines who want to serve internal publics better can effectively market their services internally by understanding and responding to internal decision processes and expectations. Moreover, internal customers will receive higher quality services if these staff functions focus their capabilities on meeting or exceeding man...

Abstract: Discusses the relationship between logistics, packaging and the environment. Attempts to clarify industry confusion by identifying the current status of the proposed EC Directive on Packaging and Packaging Waste, which focuses on the recovery of packaging materials. This directive has major implications for logistics. Presents a survey conducted with UK marketing executives involved with the production of consumer goods. Finds that awareness of the EC packaging directive is very high – especially among medium– and large‐sized companies. Respondents were concerned that the directive would create excessive distribution costs for their firm. Proposes that it is in this area where the benefits of information technology may be realized by allowing the efficient management of the increased volume of information created by reverse logistics. Finds that industry is somewhat unsure of what the directive is meant to achieve and who will be responsible for carrying out its requirements. Suggests that it would be unw...

Abstract: Work undertaken in collaboration with BPICS, Cincom (UK) Ltd and ICI Engineering supported by funding from the EPSRC (CDP). The project reviewed planning and scheduling procedures in over 30 industrial companies over a two‐year period to establish best practice in shop‐floor scheduling and to identify the key factors for scheduling success. Outlines the research approach briefly to provide a framework for the analysis of scheduling performance by industrial sector and by scheduling tool. This includes a powerful method for the performance measurement of supply‐chain management systems which allows the comparison of effectiveness in different operating environments and when using a variety of scheduling approaches. Important elements of the project were the review and comparison of scheduling performance in conventional MRPII environments (usually a manual activity based on expediting or the use of shop floor control) with that of more recent finite capacity‐based tools and a classification of scheduling a...

Abstract: State‐of‐the‐art communications are fast becoming a necessity in today′s international freighting and transportation industries. Sophisticated logistics chains, offering a fast and flexible response to customer demands, require an accurate flow of information for tracking, planning and control. From the outset, many sectors of the shipping and containerization industries saw EDI as a natural technology for the communication of much of this vital information. Describes how EDI is used in port operations and the consequent improvement in scheduling and reduction of paperwork.

Abstract: Explores the impact of a number of aspects of the new product development project on the success of new financial services in the United Kingdom. Finds that synergy between the new product and the organization, and the quality of internal marketing, are particularly associated with eventual success for the new product. Technological advantage, market research and responsiveness (i.e. speed of development) are also associated with success. Banks seem to be particularly effective in their use of market research, whereas building societies are good at internal marketing and synergy. New interest accounts have been particularly successful because of the use of market research and the speed of their development.

Abstract: Recommends a distribution control system which provides control of information and resource allocation throughout all stages of the supply chain, including delivery and sales order information, road traffic, vehicles, pallets and drivers. Describes how the system provides retrospective analysis and forward planning facilities and can be tailored to the specific needs of individual user companies.

Abstract: Commercial vehicle accidents impose very significant costs on industry and society but for a variety of reasons the full costs are often poorly understood. Advocates that vehicle operators should undertake a full and systematic analysis of accident levels, causes and costs. Introduces the CCSM model of vehicle accident reduction. By undertaking analysis based on this approach, most vehicle operators should be able to identify measures to reduce accidents substantially. Typical measures include the implementation of vehicle accident monitoring systems, driver age and experience policies, reviews of vehicle speed policy, driver training schemes, more systematic driver recruitment and better vehicle specification.

Abstract: Discusses the results of a survey concerning CASE tool usage conducted in 1994 with UK and Hong Kong user organizations and software suppliers. Builds up organizational profiles in terms of a set of characteristics related to their approach to software development and CASE, and then asks about the effects that CASE have on organizations. Examines both current and future CASE usage, the difference between the UK and Hong Kong CASE markets, the effects of CASE on quality and productivity, and the types and components of CASE tools that give the most and the least satisfaction.

Abstract: The internal customer model has served well, but has many limitations and drawbacks. It can only take one so far. Now, we must change the model. It is time to let customer mean customer.

Abstract: The logistics industry has had to respond quickly to help organizations survive the harsh business climate of the early 1990s. Demonstrates how this is being achieved by re‐engineering the flow of information around organizations to save money, speed production cycles, improve customer services and attain competitive advantage, with the result that logistics and supply chain systems are quickly developing into highly efficient business networks through the use of new technologies such as electronic commerce services.

Abstract: Discusses the ways in which the express delivery industry has addressed the problems of data management through increasingly sophisticated automation. Describes the stages of computerization through which a company must go to achieve complete service and system integration. Proposes that without information technology express operators would not be able to give acceptable levels of service. Finds that in this highly competitive market IT has helped operators to reduce costs and improve services.

Abstract: Describes the “educational partnership” between the University of Central England and the Rover Group. Outlines the background and explains the nature of the developing links between the two. Identifies the precise benefits accruing to both sides as a result of the partnership. Finally, provides a detailed synopsis of a project sponsored by Rover in 1993, as an example.

Abstract: Describes a study undertaken for a major Scottish drinks company. The company believed that the quality of service to its customers had declined in the course of merger and rationalization. Presents the background of the company and describes relevant company procedures in outline. Also describes the recommendations made and presents top management reports with measures of customer service. Discusses issues concerning implementation.

Abstract: Discusses the importance of an effective supply chain to companies trading in Europe. Looks at the recent technological developments which are leading to more sophisticated multi‐modal distribution techniques. Suggests that technology is the most important issue which businesses must address if they are to compete as world‐class companies. Proposes that multi‐modal distribution is becoming a key part in the successful management of the European supply chain and that logistics professionals should work closely with their clients to ensure the most effective method is selected.

Abstract: Leyland trucks is the largest British‐owned commercial vehicle manufacturer producing rigid and tractor vehicles over 6 tonnes GVW. Describes the flexibility required in supplier delivery, assembly capacity and labour utilization in a build‐to‐order environment while ensuring the quality of the product.

Abstract: Discusses flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) and measures the benefits of substituting production flexibility for inventory. Compares the trade‐offs that arise in balanced operations, graphical models and some of the associated risks of flexible manufacturing implementation, operation and management. Also addresses the question of selecting flexibility over other techniques as well as benefits which flexibility provides. Examines a brief comparison between traditional and flexible manufacturing. Examples include illustrations of the benefits of FMS and cost flexibility, plus a view of the future role of FMS.

Abstract: Seeks to document a responsive strategy to manufacturing planning with Cussons (UK) Limited, a company operating in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. In the FMCG environment products are manufactured to a sales forecast, and customers demand 100 per cent service levels within lead‐times, sometimes in the order of hours rather than days. It is essential that a company′s stock replenishment procedures should reflect this situation rather than inhibit its ability to respond. Manufacturing resource planning (MRPII), the standard for planning and procurement used comprehensively within manufacturing industry, is a tool that has been generally accepted and used within the FMCG sector. It was not, however, either designed or developed to cope with the specific demands imposed by this type of business. Suggests that MRPII, rather than facilitating responsive planning, may actually form a barrier to change.

Abstract: Describes the successful implementation by a major airline′s catering division of a comprehensive, computer‐controlled logistics system comprising two separate, fully automated warehousing and ordering systems, making order error a rarity and enabling three‐shift operation which has significantly increased profitability.

Abstract: The yardsticks used in the very last purchase of an information system may be totally out of date when searching for its replacement. Of equal significance, if the person wielding the yardstick does not know the questions to ask, then the users of the system are deprived of the tools which may significantly improve their personal performance and that of their employing company in the marketplace.

Abstract: Covers the development of the PDF417 barcode symbology, describing the evolution of the linear bar code and why PDF – the portable data file – was developed. Examples are given of PDF417 being used. Techniques including error correction, algorithms and scanning are described.

Abstract: Describes how declining standards in printing quality are resulting in failure of barcodes to scan, and shows how the problem can be averted if printers use film masters to print and verifiers to check barcodes when printed. Recommends standardization of barcode technology throughout Europe and training of staff to ensure adherence to such standards.

Abstract: Proposes ways to improve human‐computer interaction by presenting system information to users in ways which conform to their own learning models First, describes problems of novice users and makes recommendations for addressing their difficulties, then relates types of computer presentation media to users′ learning styles Concludes that some problems encountered by novice users can be overcome by presenting information in ways that users easily understand

Abstract: Production scheduling is being focused on increasingly as a critical company activity. Consequently, it is becoming commonplace to hear of finite capacity scheduling systems being linked to existing MRP‐type systems, to provide a more detailed and flexible scheduling mechanism. But how easy is it to accomplish? Focuses on a user′s (a well‐known pharmaceutical company) journey to such a goal; sharing his views at the outset, his experiences along the way and the surprises that lay in store. The supplier of the system retaliates with his perspective of the experience and develops some general guidelines for selecting and installing scheduling software.