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Rudolf Leuschner, Ph.D.

Supply Chains are made up of a network of companies from the initial raw materials to the ultimate consumer of the finished product. Within this network of companies, there are three ongoing flows: products, information, and finances. To properly understand and manage the supply chain, you need to understand all the flows. If you do not consider all of the flows, you will miss opportunities or sub-optimize parts of the supply chain.

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Supply Chains are made up of a network of companies from the initial raw materials to the ultimate consumer of the finished product. Within this network of companies, there are three ongoing flows: products, information, and finances. To properly understand and manage the supply chain, you need to understand all the flows. If you do not consider all of the flows, you will miss opportunities or sub-optimize parts of the supply chain.

The fourth of five courses in this specialization will focus on Logistics Excellence. You will learn how the outbound flow of products, information, and finances into the company facilitates the supply chain. It will consist of four modules, which will cover the following topics: core logistics elements; logistics information systems; logistics finance; and finally the capstone case study.

You will have lectures, readings, and discussions with your peers for each topic, as well as a practice quiz in each lesson. At the end of each module, you can put your knowledge to the test and take a graded quiz. The Capstone Analysis module contains a real-life case analysis, as well as a supply chain management project that will enable you to be an expert on a company of your choosing.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Core Logistics Elements
Logistics is the movement and storage of goods from the point of origin to the customer. You will learn about the different options that firms can use to move their products to their destinations. Most companies have to balance different delivery options for different situations and you will learn how to make those decisions. The module is made up of the following lessons: 1. Balancing Delivery Options, 2. Designing a Logistics Network, 3. Managing Logistics Relationships, and lastly, 4. the Core Logistics Elements Quiz
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Module 2: Logistics Information Systems
In this module, we will cover information flow related to logistics. Specifically, we will focus on warehouse management systems and transportation management systems as the key pieces to delivering products to customers.
Module 3: Logistics Finance
In this module, we will cover the flow of funds coming into the company from the customer. What are one company's payables is another's receivables. We are looking at the perspective of the customer now. Specifically, we will cover customer financing and look at the other side of DPO extension.
Module 4: Logistics Excellence Analysis
Now that we have reached the end of this course, it is time to put all of your new knowledge to the test. Not only will you be able to analyze the logistics network of a company but you will also analyze a real-life business case and suggest improvements.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Examines core logistics elements, which are standard in supply chain management
Explores finance flow into the firm, which is crucial in supply chain management
Teaches logistics information systems, which are necessary for delivering products to customers
Includes practice quizzes, which help learners assess their understanding
Provides a graded quiz at the end of each module, which helps learners track their progress
Offers a capstone case study and project, which provide opportunities for practical application

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Logistics Excellence with these activities:
Review Logistics Fundamentals
Refresh your understanding of basic logistics principles to set a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Revise the principles of transportation modes, warehousing, and inventory management.
  • Review the concepts of supply chain integration and coordination.
Compile Logistics Resources
Expand your knowledge base by gathering and organizing valuable resources related to logistics.
Browse courses on Industry Best Practices
Show steps
  • Create a repository of articles, white papers, and research studies on logistics topics.
  • Identify and bookmark reputable websites, blogs, and online platforms that provide insights into logistics trends and advancements.
  • Compile a list of useful software and tools for logistics professionals.
Assist Fellow Students
Deepen your understanding by explaining concepts and assisting other students in their learning journey.
Browse courses on Mentoring
Show steps
  • Join study groups or online forums where you can engage with fellow students.
  • Offer support and guidance to those struggling with specific topics or assignments.
  • Organize or participate in peer-review sessions to provide constructive feedback.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Logistics Information Systems
Enhance your understanding of the role of information technology in logistics operations.
Show steps
  • Follow tutorials on warehouse management systems and their functionalities.
  • Explore tutorials on transportation management systems and their applications.
  • Investigate case studies on the successful implementation of logistics information systems.
Design a Logistics Network
Apply your understanding of core logistics elements to create an optimized logistics network.
Show steps
  • Define the scope of the logistics network, including product characteristics, demand patterns, and geographical constraints.
  • Identify potential distribution centers, warehouses, and transportation routes.
  • Analyze and compare different network configurations using quantitative models or simulation tools.
  • Develop a detailed plan for implementing the designed network.
Solve Logistics Case Studies
Apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop critical thinking skills.
Show steps
  • Analyze business case studies that highlight logistics challenges and solutions.
  • Identify and propose innovative solutions to optimize logistics operations.
  • Present your analysis and recommendations to a group for feedback.
Contribute to Open-Source Logistics Projects
Gain hands-on experience and contribute to the logistics community.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source projects related to logistics, such as warehouse management systems or transportation optimization algorithms.
  • Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
  • Fix bugs, implement new features, or improve documentation.
  • Submit pull requests and engage in discussions with other contributors.

Career center

Learners who complete Logistics Excellence will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Supply Chain Analyst
Supply Chain Analysts use their knowledge of logistics and supply chain management to identify inefficiencies and improve business performance. They may work in a variety of sectors, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. The Logistics Excellence course would be very helpful for those in this role, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the three major flows in supply chains: products, information, and finances. With this knowledge, Supply Chain Analysts can better identify and address inefficiencies in the supply chains they work with.
Logistics Coordinator
Logistics Coordinators plan, implement, and manage the movement of goods and materials within a company or organization. They may also be responsible for overseeing the flow of information and finances related to logistics. The Logistics Excellence course would be very useful for those in this role, as it provides a deep dive into the core elements of logistics, logistics information systems, and logistics finance. With this knowledge, Logistics Coordinators can better manage the logistics and supply chain processes in the organizations they work for.
Operations Manager
Operations Managers lead other employees in a wide variety of sectors. They ensure that all operations run smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. The Logistics Excellence course would be a huge boon to those in this role, as it teaches the skills and concepts needed to manage core logistics elements such as balancing delivery options, designing logistics networks, and managing logistics relationships. These skills can help Operations Managers optimize the logistics and supply chain processes in the organizations they work for.
Warehouse Manager
Warehouse Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of warehouses. They are responsible for managing inventory, ensuring that goods are stored and shipped properly, and for maintaining a safe and efficient work environment. The Logistics Excellence course would be very helpful for those in this role, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the core elements of logistics, logistics information systems, and logistics finance. With this knowledge, Warehouse Managers can better manage the logistics and supply chain processes in the organizations they work for.
Transportation Manager
Transportation Managers oversee the movement of goods and materials by land, sea, or air. They are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing transportation operations, as well as for negotiating rates with carriers. The Logistics Excellence course would be very helpful for those in this role, as it provides a thorough understanding of the core elements of logistics, logistics information systems, and logistics finance. With this knowledge, Transportation Managers can better manage the logistics and supply chain processes in the organizations they work for.
Procurement Manager
Procurement Managers are responsible for acquiring goods and services for their organizations. They work with suppliers to negotiate prices, manage contracts, and ensure that goods and services are delivered on time and in accordance with specifications. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Procurement Managers can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in the procurement of goods and services.
Distribution Manager
Distribution Managers are responsible for managing the distribution of goods and materials to customers. They work with customers to determine their needs, and they work with carriers to ensure that goods and materials are delivered on time and in accordance with specifications. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems, including transportation management systems. With this knowledge, Distribution Managers can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in distribution.
Inventory Manager
Inventory Managers are responsible for managing the inventory levels of their organizations. They work with suppliers to ensure that inventory is available when needed, and they work with customers to ensure that inventory is shipped on time. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems, including warehouse management systems and transportation management systems. With this knowledge, Inventory Managers can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in inventory management.
Customer Service Manager
Customer Service Managers are responsible for managing the customer service operations of their organizations. They work with customers to resolve complaints, answer questions, and provide support. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Customer Service Managers can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in customer service.
Sales Manager
Sales Managers are responsible for managing the sales operations of their organizations. They work with sales teams to develop and implement sales strategies, and they work with customers to close deals. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Sales Managers can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in sales.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for managing the marketing operations of their organizations. They work with marketing teams to develop and implement marketing campaigns, and they work with customers to build relationships. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Marketing Managers can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in marketing.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use their knowledge of finance and economics to analyze and interpret financial data. They may work in a variety of sectors, including banking, insurance, and investment management. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of logistics finance. With this knowledge, Financial Analysts can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in financial analysis.
Management Analyst
Management Analysts use their knowledge of business and management to analyze and improve the operations of organizations. They may work in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, and government. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Management Analysts can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in organizational management.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts use their knowledge of business and technology to analyze and improve the operations of organizations. They may work in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, finance, and technology. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of the core elements of logistics and logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Business Analysts can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in business analysis.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts use their knowledge of technology to analyze and improve the systems of organizations. They may work in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, finance, and technology. The Logistics Excellence course may be helpful for those in this role, as it provides a basic understanding of logistics information systems. With this knowledge, Systems Analysts can better understand the logistics and supply chain processes involved in systems analysis.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Logistics Excellence.
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management, from strategy and planning to operation and execution. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of logistics and supply chain management, with a focus on the latest trends and developments in the field. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the logistics of global supply chains. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of logistics engineering and management, with a focus on the latest trends and developments in the field. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of materials management and purchasing, with a focus on the latest trends and developments in the field. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of warehouse management, with a focus on the latest trends and developments in the field. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management, with a focus on the latest trends and developments in the field. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of logistics and supply chain management, with a focus on the latest trends and developments in the field. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the field.

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