We hear more and more about integrated logistics. But what is it and what is it for? The concept of ‘logistics’ as a set of procedures and infrastructures for moving materials and products is outdated and has been superseded by the new perspectives offered by integrated logistics.
All activities, such as warehousing, processing, transport and stock management, can be managed according to the model of integrated logistics, recognising that the way they are co-ordinated has an influence on the end result. Whereas traditionally the company thought in terms of separate organisational units, today such a clearly divided view is outmoded in favour of a transversal and comprehensive approach.
Nowadays, industrial logistics can no longer just be about handling goods and materials, but must also be in tune with all other company departments, from production to marketing.
Thanks to the architecture created by integrated logistics, the company is able to optimise costs and production times: all this is possible thanks to an information and monitoring system that allows advanced control of every phase of the company’s processes.
Today, with consumers’ changing needs and global markets, it is increasingly important to manage all activities from an integrated logistics perspective: the ultimate goal becomes greater customer satisfaction, resulting in a significant competitive advantage for the company.
