Logistics and the Out-bound Supply Chain

The distribution of products from the manufacturer to the customer is an important issue in manufacturing. This student introduction covers the way the performance of distribution systems is measured and assessed, the key elements of distribution, including product forecasting techniques, order management, stock control and management, and modes of transport. In addition it investigates the structure and design of distribution networks, the dynamics of the supply chain, and the problems of international product distribution. The book also explores the impact of advances in technology, such as the Internet and mobile telephony, on distribution, including changes in order processing, transportation and logistics strategies.

John Meredith Smith lectures in Operations Management on undergraduate, post-graduate and MBA programmes in universities and business schools in the UK and across Europe. He was UK Manufacturing Director of Norsk Data and Operations Director of Wordplex plc. His industrial experience spans 25 years in the UK, Europe, US and South Africa. He is author of numerous articles in the specialist and professional journals.