Information and communication technology (ict) in logistics

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in LogisticsAt the end of this lecture, students should be able toKnow the importance of ICT in logistics managementKnow the ICT devices use in Logistics managementLearning OutcomesUsesInformation and communication systems may: aid the decision making processhelp to monitor and control operations create simulated systemsstore and process dataand aid communication between individuals, companies and machines.ICT in LogisticsSatellite communicationMobile dataEDIBar codesRFIDSatellite communicationThe ability to send and receive data via the satellite system has dramatically improved the ability of logistics managers to manage their operations and assets wherever they may be located.Satellite communicationCommunication anywhere: Where there are no mobile or fixed line telephone facilities, it is possible to use satellite telephones. Tracking: Mobile assets such as roads, vehicles, ships and containers may be tracked through the use of satellites. Mobile Devices and dataAlmost all individuals involved in logistics carry some sort of mobile deviceThis has helped mobile staff stay in contact with their base offices wherever there is network coverage. For instance...Many delivery drivers carry ruggedized mobile devices that allow customers to sign electronically for the receipt of their goods. These devices then update the company system with the information that the delivery has been made. For instance...Many courier companies allow their customers access to their consignment tracking systems via the internet so that they may check the progress of urgent consignments.Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)EDI has been defined as: computer to computer exchange of structural data for automatic processing. EDI is used by supply chain partners to exchange essential information necessary for effective running of their business. The structural links are usually set up between organisations that have long term trading relationships.For example - EPOS Some multiple retailers will supply Electronic Point-of-Sale (EPOS) data directly to suppliers, which in turn triggers replenishment of the item sold.EDI benefits It provides timely information about customers salesIt is highly efficient and accurate because it does not need staff to collate the information manuallyIt is used to send documents (invoices, bills of lading, confirmation of dispatch, shipping details) and any information linked-organisations choose to exchange.Bar CodesA bar code is a representation of a number or code in a form suitable for reading by machines. Bar codes are widely used throughout the supply chain to identify and track goods at all stages in the process. For example Goods received in a warehouse may be identified by the warehouse management system and added to the stock held in the warehouse. When put away the bar code is used to associate the storage location with the bar coded stock, and on dispatch the stock record is amended. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)RFID is a rapidly developing technology that allows objects to be tagged with a device that contains a memory chip. The chip has read-and-write facility that is currently executed using a variety of radio frequencies. For exampleA pallet of goods can have an RFID tag attached that contains a large amount of information regarding the pallet. This might include product details, the number of cartons, stock keeping unit (SKU) number, the origin and destination of the goods, the location in a warehouse and so on.18Akpe na mi!