Logistics Studies
Studies is another word to express the art of research. As per Creswell, "research is a process of steps used to collect and analyze information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue". It consists of three steps: pose a question, collect data to answer the question, and present an answer to the question." In the logistics world, we use it to establish or confirm facts, reaffirm the results of previous work, solve new or existing problems, support structures, or develop new strategies. A research project may also be an expansion on past work in the field of logistics. To test the validity of logistics organizations, infrastructures, ventures, or procedures, research may replicate elements of prior projects, or the project as a whole.
The goal of the research process is to produce new knowledge or deepen understanding of a logistics market, strategy, structure, venture, or challenge. This process takes three main forms: exploratory research (identifies and defines a logistics problem or question), constructive research (tests logistics strategies and proposes solutions to a problem or question), and empirical research (tests the feasibility of a logistics solution using empirical evidence). We use all three major types of research design: qualitative research, quantitative research, and mixed-method research (includes qualitative and quantitative elements, using both primary and secondary data).
We conduct logistics research by using the hourglass model structure of research. So we start with a broad spectrum for our study, focusing in on the required information through the method of the project, then expands the research in the form of discussion and results. The major steps in conducting logistics research usually are:
- Identification of logistics research problem
- Specialized logistics literature review
- Specifying the purpose of research
- Determine specific research questions
- Specification of a conceptual framework (usually a set of hypotheses)
- Choice of a methodology (for data collection)
- Data collection
- Analyzing and interpreting the data
- Reporting and evaluating research
- Communicating the research findings and, possibly, recommendations
The type of research and studies we conduct at SCMO are:
- feasibility studies of logistics projects
- due diligence of existing logistics operations
- financial modeling of logistics projects or ventures
- regulatory & operational frameworks for logistics infrastructure projects
- feasibility studies and design planning for countries to become regional logistics hubs