The module aims to:
Provide students with a thorough grounding in contemporary logistics operations and transportation;
Introduce students to the value and outcomes of optimising logistics operations;
Equip students with the analytical skillset to assess logistics performance and evaluate logistics systems.

(LO1) Students will be able to critically appraise the role and importance of logistics to competitive business performance.

(LO2) Students will be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the various modes of transportation.

(LO3) Students will be able to construct logistics networks and evaluate logistics network designs.

(LO4) Students will be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the impact of logistics activities on the environment and business sustainability.

(LO5) Students will be able to identify and apply methods and techniques for improving logistics efficiency.

(S1) Problem solving

(S2) Commercial awareness

(S3) Organisational skills

(S4) Communication skills

(S5) IT skills

(S6) International awareness

(S7) Lifelong learning skills

(S8) Ethical awareness

Teaching Method 1: Lecture
Scheduled Directed Student Hours: 24
Description: Lectures are used to introduce, explore and critique current theory, concepts and professional practice. A range of journals, texts, online videos and opinion pieces will be used as a basis for further reading/study to extend application of theory to a range of sectors. References to new research will expose students to state-of-the-art concepts and ideas.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2: Tutorial
Scheduled Directed Student Hours: 12
Description: Tutorials will develop students’ skills of critical analysis and strategic thinking. Workshop-style activities covering case studies, problem solving, and group work will link theory and practice and develop students’ skills in collaborative teamwork and communication.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Self-Directed Learning Hours: 114
Description: Students are expected to consult a variety of resources a s background and supplementary reading, including the relevant parts of the core and recommended texts, and state-of-the-art journal articles. These resources will be accessible via the library. Students will also be expected to identify their own resources by undertaking a literature search as part of the module assessment. Students are advised to follow the lecture notes for the module. Tutorial questions and problems should be attempted before attending the tutorial sessions. Suggested outline answers and solutions will be provided. Revision guidance will be provided for the examination.

Skills Mapping

Skill: Problem solving
How is it developed: Through research and case studies in order to match approaches and techniques with logistics problems and evaluate solutions.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework and Examination

Skill: Commercial awareness
How is it developed: By gaining an understanding of how organisations develop commercial outcom es from case studies.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework and Examination

Skill: Organisational skills
How is it developed: Through time and task management for the module assignment.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework and Examination

Skill: Communication skills
How is it developed: By discussing logistics challenges and by engaging with case studies and report writing.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework and Examination

Skill: IT skills
How is it developed: Through on-line research to undertake assigned work.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework

Skill: International awareness
How is it developed: Through studying logistics challenges presented by different contexts in different countries.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework and Examination

Skill: Lifelong learning skills
How is it developed: Preparation and research processes for in-class exercises and module as signment.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Coursework

Skill: Ethical awareness
How is it developed: Through understanding the challenges presented by green logistics practices.
Mode of assessment (if applicable): Examination

Logistics and transportation;
Transportation means - air, road, sea, pipeline, rail, inland waterways;
Transportation selection criteria - types of cost analysis, Intermodal operations;
Distribution management - strategies, cost modelling, logistics partnerships, measures of logistics performance, facilities location, computer-based planning;
Warehousing - storage location, cross-docking, containerisation, packaging and palletisation;
The concept of 3rd party logistics (3PL) and how 3PL providers add value;
The current status and development trends of logistics networks;
Ports and maritime logistics operations;
Port-centric logistics network management - collaboration strategies, support from information systems, route/mode planning and optimisation of logistics networks;
Green logistics and supply chain sustainability;
Reverse logistics activities for product lifecycle management.