The impact of project characteristics on temporary logistics solutions

Rapid and radical change, complexity and interdependency drive the number of projects undertaken every year. The execution of some of these projects is dependent on the movement of large quantities of goods to and from project sites. To be able to carry out these projects, temporary logistics solutions are needed. The purpose of this study is to explore how project characteristics impact temporary logistics solutions. The findings presented are based on a number of qualitative case studies from projects representing a broad range of businesses. Empirical data has mainly been collected through interviews with persons that were liable for logistics operations performed by the temporary organisations. How temporary organisations plan and operate temporary logistics solutions is dependent on the preferences and earlier experiences of the individuals in the temporary organisation. The organisations consist of specialists brought together to create something unique. Consequently, responsibility for goods procurement and logistics operations is usually functionally divided. Parent organisations heavily impact the work processes of temporary organisations, the employment form used and contracts negotiated with external partners. Other groups of external counterparts that have an impact on temporary organisations and their work are customers, authorizers and goods- and service-providers. Depending on project characteristics, project planning and execution can be more or less sensitive to changes and disturbances. Changes and disturbances can affect capacity requirements in temporary logistics solutions and the value of the project end-product. With increased flexibility in activity sequencing and secured access to crucial resources the effect of disturbances and changes can be diminished. Basic handling equipment is usually provided for on-site logistics operations. If obstacles like restricted areas for material storage and handling are prevalent, more advanced on-site logistics solutions, involving for example diversified working hours and custom-fitted material, are needed. For projects that are undertaken to produce intangible products, site activities can generally be divided into three phases. On-site logistics operations then mainly take part before and after the main project activity and, contrary to projects undertaken to produce tangible products, the project site is used for a very limited time of the project duration. (A)

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/16528026
• Authors:
  • MODIG, N
• Publication Date: 2004

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 120p
• Serial:
  • REPORT / DEPARTMENT OF LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORTATION, CHALMERS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
  • Issue Number: 59
  • Publisher: CHALMERS TEKNISKA HOEGSKOLA
  • ISSN: 1652-8026

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Administration; Logistics; Personnel; Planning; Storage facilities
• Uncontrolled Terms: Temporary; Work
• ITRD Terms: 155: Administration; 264: Logistics; 2271: Occupation; 102: Personnel; 143: Planning; 9077: Temporary
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Freight Transportation; Planning and Forecasting; Society; Terminals and Facilities; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01015332
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI)
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Jan 12 2006 8:58AM