Projects Logistics
Most people in the project and business environment are familiar with the terms ‘logistics management’ and ‘supply chain management’, until they’re asked to explain the difference. Supply chain management encompasses the planning and management of all activities involved in sourcing and procurement, conversion, and all logistics management activities. It also includes coordination and collaboration with supply chain partners, namely suppliers, intermediaries, third-party service providers, and customers. Supply chain management effectively integrates supply and demand management within and across companies.
Projects logistics already commences in the feasibility study stage of a project. Accessibility to the site, in terms of transport routes, rail carrying capacities and bridge widths, can dictate the design approach to be followed. In the situation where very long lead-times for equipment apply, it may have to be ordered before completion of the final design. It is this early involvement of supply chain professionals in a project which guides us away from the term ‘construction logistics’ and is why we rather use ‘project logistics’.