trident LOG490 module 2 case and SLP

Module 2 - Case

LOGISTICS PROVIDERS, TRADITIONAL AND VIRTUAL

Case Assignment

After reading the background sources, please write an essay addressing the following questions.

1. Compare and contrast the functions normally associated with 4PLs to those of 3PLs.

2. What are the factors responsible for more and more companies relying on the services of 4PLs?

3. Explain why it is important to establish metrics that can help determine the “value” a 4PL can contribute to the supply chain, before entering into these agreements.

4. Would you consider Unyson’s logistics solutions, as devised for Big Lots, to be consistent with the role of a 4PL in adding value to a supply chain? (Explain and illustrate.)

Assignment Expectations

Describe, compare and contrast the roles of traditional logistics service providers with the roles of virtual logistics service providers. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of why virtual logistics services are important, the reason for increased specialization among third and fourth party service providers, and how these services support collaborative logistics management initiatives. Skillfully integrate information from previous logistics courses with information obtained from this course’s readings.

Module 2 - SLP

LOGISTICS PROVIDERS, TRADITIONAL AND VIRTUAL

Each SLP assignment consists of two activities. See SLP 1 for a complete description of each.

Activity 1 (Assessment Phase)

Describe and assess your organization's experience, if any, with 4PLs (“virtual” logistics service providers [VLSP]).

Activity 2 (Improvement Phase)

Determine if your organization could more effectively use the services of 4PLs (VLSP). If your organization has no experience with 4PLs (VLSP), discuss the major advantages and disadvantages that might result from using a VLSP for the organization.

SLP Assignment Expectations

Integrate the background materials and previous course work, to assess the reference organization’s experience, if any, with virtual logistics service providers. Demonstrate critical thinking, logic, and an in-depth knowledge of the virtual logistics service concept and how it could either be introduced, or more effectively utilized, as part of the reference organization’s supply chain management.

Submit your assignment for grading by the end of the module.

SLP General Expectations

· Since this is a capstone course, you are expected to make full use of your detailed understanding of the material covered in this course, as well as earlier courses (LOG301, LOG302, and LOG401). You should display highly developed critical, analytical and expository skills.

· Don’t write in checklist form. Integrate the information you find into a well-constructed essay.

· You may not find specific information relating to this assignment. In that case, you will need to “fill in the gaps,” using your understanding of the company you’re analyzing, plus the sources listed on the Background Info page.

· Style and format must comply with the Writing Style Guide. (TUI Guide, n.d.) This is not an English course; however, errors in spelling, grammar and style will be penalized.

· Provide citations and references. Use of APA style is encouraged, but not required. Please see the TUI Writing Guide, or visit the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL, 2015).

· There is no page requirement. Write what you need to write, neither more nor less.

· Upload your SLP before the end of the module.