An information technology implementation framework for the logistics industry in Singapore

Abstract

An industry cluster is a geographically concentrated, self-flourishing ecosystem comprising production systems, shippers, logistics service providers, IT vendors, infrastructure providers, regulatory agencies, research institutions, consultants and other logistics-related organisations that leverage on the interdependencies between them to provide efficient and effective logistics solutions. This article introduces a framework in the deployment of supply chain technologies for the logistics industry. More specifically, the different stages in rolling out an industry project for supply chain management are discussed here based on examples from the logistics industry in Singapore. The generic framework proposed can also be used in other clusters.

ICT implementation process model for logistics service providers

“…Based on the bibliographic review, 22 ICT implementation models were identified; among them, those proposed by Ruta (2005), Tan and Kritchanchai (2006) and Madritsch and May (2009). The technologies deployed were varied, including enterprise resource planning systems (ERP), barcode, e‐procurement, etc.…”

“…According to Grohowski et al (1990), a new module should only be implemented after the last activity of the previous implementation has been performed. We also propose that there should be a feedback for ICT integration with its external partners: these partners should also be included gradually, like the ICT modules (Fu et al , 2004; Tan and Kritchanchai, 2006). Figure 3 shows where to place the two proposed feedback steps in the implementation process.…”

“…Hiring specialized LSPs can be considered to be a differentiation strategy in a highly competitive market – access to modern ICT and supply chain management tools is one of the main goals of outsourcing in such a context (Cain, 2010; Lieb and Bentz, 2005). Likewise, LSPs offer ICT integrated solutions with greater added value, aimed especially at supply chain integration and information flow management (Chapman et al , 2003; Marchet et al , 2009; Tan and Kritchanchai, 2006).…”