Lookup NU author(s): Dr Dewan Islam, Dr Tom Zunder
Purpose: The current paper aims to: a) propose and verify definition of eLogistics: ‘a set of activities based on using ICT systems and tools, as well as the Internet, as the main communication medium in order to maintain logistics processes’ and explore its acceptance; b) provide a synthesis of trend and possibilities of eLogistics systems and c) obtain a comprehensive picture of available eLogistics applications, sources, functionality and use by different type of companies. Method: A qualitative research approach was adopted applying the Bristol Online Survey (BOS) tool. A brief literature review (of limited online sources and books) resulted in the online survey questionnaire. The survey questions had the options of: agree or disagree; or yes or no on a particular statement or issue. Also to solicit the opinion of the survey participants, a free text area/box was provided against an issue or statement. Result: The study suggests that open source, open standards and standardised system interfaces will support increased supply chain efficiency through integration and access to SMEs as well as larger players. Conclusion: The development and running of an eLogistics platform is costly for SMEs. The authors recommend that such platform be developed through funding by national governments and/or the European Commission. The running and maintenance of such platform can be done by an association relevant to SMEs or a third party with a small contribution (or fee) by the participating SMEs.
Author(s): Islam DMZ, Zunder TH
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: European Transport Research Review
Year: 2013
Volume: 5
Issue: 2
Pages: 65-78
Print publication date: 01/02/2013
Date deposited: 27/02/2013
ISSN (print): 1867-0717
ISSN (electronic): 1866-8887
Publisher: Springer
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12544-013-0093-1
DOI: 10.1007/s12544-013-0093-1
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