Module overview
Logistics studies the optimal planning and control of materials, information, and cash-flows through the processes of transformation, transportation, and storage within a system. Integrated logistics studies the management of the logistics across multiple products and multiple firms in a supply chain. The difference is therefore how one could make better (joint) decision to reduce inefficiency.
The design of this module is well aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where cutting edge research results would be used for teaching to ensure the quality of education (SDG 4), and the students are expected to understand how efficient production and/or logistics decisions could be made to achieve responsible consumption and production (SDG 12).
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- utilise written communication;
- structure and solve problems;
- apply spreadsheet modelling and manipulation.
- apply quantitative decision making methods;
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- determine and calculate the impact of (coordination) contracts on logistics performance.
- critically evaluate logistics processes for areas of improvement;
- model and solve new logistics situations and problems;
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- the modern concepts and approaches used in managing logistics and supply chains in an integrated manner;
- strategies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of logistics operations of a company.
- the logistics' function in relation to the firm's strategy, cash-flow management and supplier- and customer- relationship/contract management;
Syllabus
- The supply chain as a strategic asset – including: performance measures, trade-offs, zone of strategic fit, strategic capacity management.
- Historical perspective on supply chain strategies – including: push/pull boundary, MPS/MRP/ERP, JIT & TQM & lean and the Toyota Kanban system, time based competition and TOC, innovation & product life cycle, agility, e-Business, and data-driven logistics.
- Data-driven supply and demand planning and control, with applications to yield and inventory management, setting appropriate service levels, bullwhip effect, and value of centralised stock control.
- Strategic alliances, outsourcing, and coordination in decentralised supply chains, including: the role of power, impact of double marginalisation, contract equipment manufacturing, third party logistics service providers, supplier – retailer partnerships, consignment stock & vendor managed inventories, distributor integration & lateral transhipments, types of contracts.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The programme employs a range of teaching and learning methods tailored to online delivery and the needs of working professionals. One of the primary methods used is asynchronous learning, where students can access materials on their own schedule. This includes multimedia resources - but not just video lectures, but also podcasts, animations, and interactive simulations; and reading materials like PDFs or e-books. These resources allow learners to engage with content at their own pace. In addition, discussion forums provide a space for students to ask questions and participate in debates with their peers without the need for everyone to be online at the same time. The asynchronous learning is complemented by synchronous components, such as webinars. These sessions, give students the opportunity to interact with instructors in real-time, asking questions or participating in discussions. All of these methods are designed to accommodate different learning approaches and ensure that students can apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios relevant to their professional contexts. With a strong emphasis on self-paced learning, supported by ongoing instructor guidance.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 90 |
| Guided independent study | 34 |
| Online Course | 26 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Simchi-Levi, D., P. Kaminsky, and E. Simchi-Levi (2004). Managing the Supply Chain: The Definitive Guide for the Business Professional. McGraw-Hill Professional.
Winston, W.L. (2004). Operations Research: Applications and Algorithms. Brooks/Cole.
Silver, E.A., D.F. Pyke, and R. Peterson (1998). Inventory Management and Production Planning and Scheduling. New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Jacobs, F.R., R.B. Chase, and N.J. Aquilano (2014). Operations and Supply Chain Management. McGraw-Hill Higher Education.
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
In-class activities
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: There will be many opportunities to gain feedback from the tutor and/or peers about your level of understanding and knowledge prior to any formal summative assessment. In particular, discussion in synchronous sessions will provide an opportunity for feedback from peers and tutors.
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Group Coursework | 20% |
| Individual Coursework | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Individual Coursework | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 20% |
| Coursework | 80% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External