Logistics

The term 'Logistics' derived from the ancient Greek word 'λόγoς' ('logos'—meaning 'ratio, word, calculation, reason, speech, oration'), is considered to have originated for the military's need. Although quite an old concept, the term 'Logistics' started to be used widely in the business world since the early 1990s when globalization, coupled with liberalisation, triggered intense business competition and forced both private and public firms to commit themselves to meet the challenges of the market. Logistics management also known as Supply Chain Management (SCM) is all the activities that take place to get a product in your hands – from the time of raw materials extraction to the minute you pay money or use your credit card to buy the final product. SCM focuses on planning and forecasting, purchasing, assembling the product, moving, storing and keeping track of a product as it flows toward you and other consumers. In other words, Logistics management is that part of the supply chain which plans, implements and controls the efficient, effective forward and reverse flow of goods & services, its storage and related information between the point of origin and the point of consumption in order to meet customer and legal requirements. Logistics is a channel of the supply chain which adds the value of time and place utility. In an increasingly globalized supply chain, it has become necessary for businesses to provide their customers 'the right item in the right quantity at the right time at the right place at the lowest cost'. Importantly, it also includes coordination and collaboration with channel partners, which can be suppliers, intermediaries, third party service providers, and customers. A logistic manager is responsible for collaborating with the other officers of the company such as purchasing officers, transport and warehouse managers, to ensure that the goods produced by the company are received in the company's depot on time. A logistic manager is also responsible for making sure that the goods are stored in a proper and safe manner in addition to looking after their timely dispatch to outlets. In essence, supply chain management integrates supply and demand management within and across companies. A professional working in the field of logistics management is called a Logistician. Eligibility Educational : Several educational institutions in India are imparting courses in Logistics. These courses are offered generally in part-time mode, at the diploma, certificate, postgraduate degree and post graduate diploma levels. The candidates must have passed 10+2 level examination and graduation with at least 50% marks in aggregate, from any recognized Institution or a University to take a course in this field. To establish a career in Logistics, a course in a subject related to Logistics would help, such as CLP (Certified Logistics practitioner), Business logistics, supply chain management or transport management. One may also opt for higher degrees such as an MBA in logistics, M.Sc. in supply chain management, transport management or Logistics. While pursuing the course, students are given hands on training in the field of supply chain management, transport management, analysis data and other business related issues. Some courses offered to enter the field are: (i) M.Sc Logistics and Supply Chain Management (iii) Degree in Business Logistics (iii) Degree in Advanced Logistics Management (iv) Logistics Network Design and Supply Chain Management (v) Degree in Transportation Economics (vi) Degree in Transportation Carrier Management (vii) MBA in logistics (viii) Post graduate Diploma in Materials & Logistics Management. Personal Skills : In addition to educational skills, commitment to the job, good leadership, Co-ordination & communication skill is a must. One should be able to work as a team and that too under extreme pressure. Skill in using computer software's and other latest means of communication technology is an added advantage, to easily interact with suppliers, intermediaries, co- workers or third party service providers. The candidate must have a high degree of analytical, numerical and geographical know-how.