Logistics Operations

Course Objective

This course enables students specializing in operations to master the strategic, analytical, and technological dimensions of logistics management. It covers the planning, execution, and optimization of transportation, warehousing, and distribution systems in both domestic and global contexts. Emphasis is placed on digital logistics tools, data-driven decisions, and agile operations to build resilient supply chain networks.

Learning Outcomes

  • Design and manage transportation, warehousing, and last-mile delivery systems.
  • Analyze logistics performance using cost, time, and service metrics.
  • Use digital tools like TMS, WMS, and GPS tracking systems for visibility and control.
  • Optimize logistics networks using modeling and simulation tools.
  • Adapt logistics strategies to disruptions, regulatory environments, and sustainability goals.

Logistics Operations Syllabus T30

Session No. Topics Tool/Reading/Activity Skill Focus
1 Introduction to Logistics in Supply Chains Bowersox Ch.1, pp. 3–22 Strategic Thinking
2 Customer Service and Order Fulfillment Ch.2, pp. 23–40 Service Alignment
3 Logistics Cost & Trade-offs Ch.3, pp. 41–63 Cost Optimization
4 Transportation Management Ch.4, pp. 65–90 Carrier Selection
5 Modes of Transport: Road, Rail, Air, Sea Ch.5, pp. 91–115 Multimodal Analysis
6 Warehousing Functions & Layout Ch.6, pp. 117–138 Facility Design
7 Inventory in Logistics Operations Ch.7, pp. 139–162 Demand Responsiveness
8 Distribution Network Design Ch.8, pp. 163–185 Network Strategy
9 Material Handling and Packaging Ch.9, pp. 187–210 Operational Efficiency
10 Global Logistics and Trade Documentation Ch.10, pp. 211–235 Global Fluency
11 3PL, 4PL and Collaborative Logistics Ch.11, pp. 237–260 Outsourcing Strategy
12 Digital Tools: TMS, WMS, GPS Demo Session Digital Fluency
13 Logistics Analytics and KPI Dashboards Analyst Reports Performance Analysis
14 Sustainable and Green Logistics Industry Articles Environmental Strategy
15 Cold Chain and Pharma Logistics Case Study Specialized Operations
16 E-Commerce and Last-Mile Logistics Journal Reading Customer-Centric Logistics
17 Logistics Contracts and Legal Aspects Legal Notes Regulatory Compliance
18 Risk Management and Disruption Handling Case: Natural Disaster Response Resilience Planning
19 Simulation Lab: Logistics Network Optimization Lab Manual Modeling Skills
20 Final Presentations: Logistics Optimization Projects Student Projects Leadership Communication

Textbook & Resources

Primary Textbook:
  • Logistics Management by Donald Bowersox, David Closs, and M. Bixby Cooper
Supplementary:
  • Supply Chain Logistics Management by Donald Bowersox & John Coyle