Operational logistics is one of the critical aspects applied in the business field, and it is subject to the nature of the business. It is an essential element in the supply of goods and services from the producer to the consumer in the business supply chain. Any business lays its focus on delivering quality goods and services to its clients using logistical operations to ensure success in the long run. There are logistical roles in any business, whether physical or eCommerce; some include inventory management, handling of materials, warehousing, project management, and third-party logistics. The assignment focuses on what logistics accomplishes for the joint force and its difference from tactical and strategic logistics. In addition, the discussion also focuses on the four segments of the defense distribution and the institution’s responsibility towards each type of logistical seams with a practical example. Finally, the interrelationships between constraints, restraints, and disadvantages in logistic planning.
Role of logistics
Logistics play a very important role in effectively accomplishing missions in any business. For example, in supply chain management, accessibility of essential resources like food, water, spare parts, and equipment logistics ensure that the Joint Force has access to them (Kress 2002). In repair and maintenance, logistics ensures that every machine and equipment is in its proper condition for effectiveness by offering technical support (Kress, 2002). Also, information management, alongside all other management forms, such as transport affairs, inventory management, and asset tracking, enhances productivity. There are many other aspects where logistics play crucial roles in business firms. With proper logistics, a firm’s service delivery becomes effective.
Tactical, operational, and strategic logistics are linked to military logistics. Each of them has limits and levels in terms of application, execution, planning, and role in the framework of military operation (Kress, 2002). Operational logistics is used in the planning stages or the campaign levels in the frameworks of operation to lay guidelines for the planning and execution of specific missions and ideas. Operational logistics is different from tactical and strategic logistics in that tactical logistics are used by the immediate unit to provide Immediate and prompt solutions to a challenge (Kress, 2002). It involves short-term planning and execution. Strategic logistics, on the other hand, involves long-term decisions, large-scale planning on heavy budgets, and critical decisions. For example, planning of infrastructure, long-term contracts, and unique partnerships with allies.
First, operational distribution involves the transportation of goods and the supply of materials. Depending on the area of operations, it can be managed by two combat commands: U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) or U.S. European Command (EUCOM). Second, strategic distribution is a sector that deals with the distribution of essential assets and long-term planning. It is a sector guided by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) (Kress, 2002). Third is retail distribution, which primarily deals with supplying and delivering goods to military units and other day-to-day operations. The military runs through its various divisions: Navy, Air Force, and Army (Kress, 2002). Finally, wholesale distribution involves transporting and storing goods in bulk. It is managed by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and other subordinate bodies like the Defense Distribution Center.
Types of seams
The two types of seams are informational seams and physical seams. Informational seams occur when there is misleading, lack of information, or proper communication between parties in a logistical setting (Kress, 2002). A good example is the need for more updates regarding information about some undelivered equipment, which may lead to inconveniences in an institution. On the other hand, physical seams result from barriers or interference in logistics flow. An excellent example of a physical seam is when there is a need to change the mode of transport from air to sea.
Challenges
Regarding constraints, physical limitations can be involved, such as the capacity for transport or a storage facility, which may hinder goods and service delivery. Restraints can be defined as limitations due to factors beyond control, simply external factors, including weather and other natural occurrences (Kress, 2002). Limitation refers to the restriction levels or inherent boundaries within a logistical setting. They may include financial constraints and shortages in skill or personnel, which define the scope of what can be achieved within a logistical setting.
In conclusion, the accomplishment of the joint force, its difference from tactical and strategic logistics, the focus on the four segments of the defense distribution, and the institution’s responsibility towards each are major areas of concern in the military context. Types of logistical seams with a practical example alongside the interrelationships between constraints, restraints, and disadvantages in logistic planning are also crucial in any institution.
Reference
Kress, M. (2002). Operational logistics. The Art and Science of Sustaining Military
Operations.
Kress, M. (2002). The Planning Process. In Operational Logistics: The Art and Science of
Sustaining Military Operations (pp. 73-100). Boston, MA: Springer US.
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