Table 3

Influencing factors on the logistics strategy process outcomes

Identified logistics strategy componentsExpected outcomesRealized outcomeIdentified constraints towards strategy implementation (data source within parentheses: D = documentation, LM = logistics manager, PM = project manager, LD = logistics Developer)
Structure components
Centralized logisticsCentralized development of logistics operations platformExisted between 2016 and 2019New purchasing manager left (started in 2016) (LM), Top management did not understand the strategy (PM), Logistics was part of the purchasing organization (D, LM, PM, LD)
Regional planning unitsAggregation of materials and distribution planning (MTS materials)Not realizedTop management did not understand the strategy (PM), Regional managers were not committed to change current way of working (LM)
ERP-systemConnecting central/regional and project planning levelsNot realizedCentral organization was reluctant to carry initial investment costs (LM, PM), Top management did not understand the strategy (PM)
Distribution terminalsInventory buffers of MTS materials in each region to increase flexibility, minimize number of deliveries, achieve economies of scaleNot realizedSite managers only experienced the incurred cost of distribution terminals (PM), Central organization was reluctant to carry initial investment costs (LM, PM)
Process components
Design and engineeringRoutines to improve planning, supplier selection and accuracy of informationNot realizedTop management did not understand the strategy (PM), Low degree of standardization in design and engineering solutions (D, LM)
Site logisticsSite disposition plan, roles and responsibilities, delivery planning, goods receptionNot realizedMaterial handling on site was not considered logistics (PM), Purchasers were not aware of material flow problems on site (LM, PM)
Marking and labelling of goodsEnsure correct and informative packaging labelsNot realizedSite managers only experienced the purchasing cost but not the savings of labelling goods (PM), Lack of scale perceived by suppliers (PM)
Delivery planning and transportsIncreased control of delivery times and reduce disturbances on production activitiesNot realizedLogistics was part of the purchasing organization (D, LM, PM), transport costs were not visible to project purchasers (included in purchasing costs) (D, LM)
Supplier development policiesContinuous improvements to supply logisticsNot realizedInsufficient logistics capabilities within purchasing organization (D, LM, PM), Long-term supply agreements were not used by project purchasers (PM), Purchasing organization's incentives drove focus on purchasing costs over total costs (D, LM, PM), Logistics was part of the purchasing organization (D, LM, PM)

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