Title: Logistics management systems: an approach for the evaluation, integration and improvement of logistics processes

Authors: Jesus Munuzuri, Jaime Beltran, Miguel Angel Rivas, Luis Onieva

Addresses: School of Engineering, University of Seville, Camino de los Descubrimientos, s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain. ' Andalusian Institute of Technology, C/ Leonardo Da Vinci, 2, 41092, Seville, Spain. ' Andalusian Institute of Technology, C/ Leonardo Da Vinci, 2, 41092, Seville, Spain. ' School of Engineering, University of Seville, Camino de los Descubrimientos, s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain

Abstract: This paper describes the design and application of a management model, the purpose of which is to set up and improve the logistics management systems in companies and organisations. This model can be easily integrated into standardised management systems according to, among others, ISO 9000 Quality Standards, ISO 14000 Environmental Standards or OHSAS 18001 Health and Safety Standards. The management model proposed here provides two diagnosis tools: one that seeks to assess the maturity level reached by logistics management systems and one that audits logistics management systems. We also review the results obtained after the integration of the management model into two benchmark firms selected according to the variety of their logistics processes and the different strategies that those firms have developed to manage and operate these processes. The results obtained prove the soundness of both the management model and the diagnosis tools designed to assess the maturity and fulfilment levels of logistics management systems.

Keywords: logistics management; auditing; management systems standards; logistics processes; logistics evaluation; logistics integration; management models; maturity levels; supply chain management; SCM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPM.2009.026068

International Journal of Procurement Management, 2009 Vol.2 No.4, pp.358 - 376

Published online: 26 May 2009 *

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