Information logistics. Theory and practice: Educational manual

The movement of material flows and its results depend on the movement of information flows associated with them.

Economic information- a set of information functioning in economic objects (about social processes of production, distribution, exchange and consumption of material goods and services), which can be recorded, transmitted, transformed and used to implement such management functions as planning, accounting, economic analysis, regulation, etc. .

Logistics information- this is purposefully collected information necessary to ensure the process of managing the enterprise’s logistics system.

Information support for logistics at an enterprise is the activity of forecasting, processing, accounting and analysis of information.

Without timely exchange of information, it is impossible to carry out logistics activities. Information contributes to the coordination of the work of departments. None of the logistics areas would be able to perform their tasks if they did not have the necessary information.

Logistics research, representing the systematic collection and analysis of data on the problems of commodity distribution, are an indispensable tool for making effective management decisions.

The study of information, as a function of enterprise management in market conditions, provides practice-tested recipes for achieving positive commercial results of logistics activities with minimal risks. In order to function normally, an enterprise must receive complete and high-quality information before and after its management makes management decisions.

Good information allows a company to:

• gain competitive advantages;
• reduce financial risk;
• determine buyer attitudes;
• justify intuitive decisions;
• increase operational efficiency;
• monitor the external environment;
• coordinate strategy;
• increase confidence in the agreements reached and obligations assumed.

The need for more extensive information is due to:

• transition from the traditional approach to material flow management, when the components of the system acted separately, to a new, logistics approach, in which the goals of each structural unit are subordinated to the overall goal of the entire enterprise;
• transition from a seller's market to a buyer's market;
• transition from price competition to non-price competition (development of logistics services), etc.

Information is used in all areas of logistics activities.

The need for information arises already at the planning stage of basic logistics processes. To do this, they use data on the main results of activity in the periods preceding the forecast one, and on the main directions of development of tax and legal relations in society as restraining or stimulating factors. These data make it possible to outline the main directions of the logistics strategy.

At the procurement stage, information about suppliers, manufactured goods, and new products is used. Here, information coming from outside helps to select the best supplier. Information coming from the micrologistics system allows, based on data on the availability of reserves, production capacity and financial stability of the enterprise, to correctly formulate a request for materials, raw materials and semi-finished products. The exchange of information between partner companies makes it possible to reach an agreement on the terms and conditions of delivery.

Information is also of great importance when transporting products. Based on the available data, the enterprise has the opportunity to determine the type and type of vehicle corresponding to the cargo being transported, and select a forwarding company with optimal tariffs. Regulatory and legal information is extremely important here, since all types of transportation, both internal and external, are subject to a number of legislative acts. In addition, the availability of information about the cargo being transported allows you to create optimal conditions for its transportation and competently organize loading and unloading operations. Comparison of shipping documentation with information about the actual condition of the cargo at the time of arrival provides grounds for filing claims, etc.

When organizing warehousing systems, data from economic calculations on the development of the warehouse network are used; regulatory, sanitary and hygienic requirements for the organization of warehouse processes. In addition, timely received information about the actual state of inventories contributes to the calculation of the optimal amount of inventories, as well as the creation of conditions to ensure their safety, prevent theft and damage to goods.

When working with customers information task- create an idea of ​​the potential sales market and distribution channels for finished products.

Logistics Information System is a constantly operating system for collecting, classifying, analyzing, evaluating and distributing relevant, timely and accurate information for use in order to improve planning, implementation and control over the execution of logistics activities.

Information is collected and analyzed through four supporting systems, which together comprise: internal reporting, market research, information analysis and current external information collection.

When determining the parameters of an enterprise, financial and accounting reporting plays a special role. This internal reporting system displays current sales indicators, expense amounts, inventory volumes, cash flow, information on accounts receivable and payable. Most often used:

• Form No. 1 “Balance Sheet of the Enterprise”;
• Form No. 2 “Profit and Loss Statement”;
• certificates for form No. 2 “Certificate for the report on financial results and their use”;
• Form No. 5 “Appendices to the balance sheet of the enterprise.”

To analyze the activities of an enterprise, an analytical balance sheet is drawn up, current indicators are determined, such as liquidity, financial stability and production efficiency. Then these indicators are compared with standard ones, a forecast of the probability of bankruptcy is made and the creditworthiness of the enterprise is assessed. Next, it is determined whether the development of the enterprise is possible with the existing logistics concept or whether the development of a new one is required.

Conducted studies show that product data entered from a computer keyboard contains on average one error for every 300 characters entered. When using bar codes, this figure drops to one error per 3 million characters. The American Management Association determined the average cost of identifying and eliminating one error at $25.

Barcoding technology and automatic data collection are based on simple physical laws. The bar code is an alternation of dark and light stripes of different widths. Its image is applied to an object that is a control object in the system. To register this element, a scanning operation is performed. In this case, a small luminous spot or laser beam from a scanning device moves along the bar code, alternately crossing thin and thick lines. The light beam reflected from the light stripes is captured by an ultra-sensitive device and converted into a discrete electrical signal. Having deciphered the light code, the computer converts it into digital.

The digital product code itself, as a rule, does not provide information about its properties. A unique 13-digit number is only the address of a cell in the computer’s memory, which contains all the information about this product necessary for machine-readable documents. The totality of this information forms a product database. Subsequently, the database must be transmitted along the distribution chain using an electronic communication network or on machine-readable media.

At the moment the check is issued by the cash register computer, the main computer of the section receives into its memory information that the product has been sold. This computer accompanies the receipt of goods from the warehouse and sale by arithmetic linking of arrays in the stock card index. Thus, the system permanently provides not only total, but also quantitative accounting of goods, which cannot be organized without coding.

Quantitative sales accounting is used for timely replenishment of the assortment. An order for the delivery of goods to a store or their delivery to the sales floor, automatically compiled and transmitted via an electronic communication network, takes into account the emerging demand for each product item.

The use of automated barcode identification technology in logistics can significantly improve the management of material flows at all stages of the logistics process. Let us note its main advantages.

In production:

• creation of a unified system for accounting and monitoring the movement of products and components at each site, as well as over the state of the logistics process at the enterprise as a whole;
• reducing the number of support staff and reporting documentation, eliminating errors.

In warehousing:

• automation of accounting and control of material flow;
• reducing time for logistics operations with material and information flows.

In trade:

• creation of a unified material flow accounting system;
• automation of ordering and inventory of goods;
• reduction of customer service time.

Another applied area of ​​information logistics is the marking of packages with machine-readable code.

In logistics processes, the object of management is not only a unit of goods, but also a cargo package, which includes tens or even thousands of individual units of goods. At the same time, a separate unit of goods, the advantages of coding and automatic identification of which are discussed above, is the main subject of labor only at the final stage of product distribution, i.e. in the store. In the earlier stages, goods move mostly in the form of freight packages. The lack of uniformity and consistency among participants in logistics processes in matters of coding, labeling and identification of these packages significantly slows down the movement of material flow and makes it difficult to manage it at all stages of movement from supplier to consumer.

In conditions where wholesale cargo is concentrated from many suppliers using different, often incompatible systems for identifying cargo packages, effective organization of material flow management is difficult. For manufacturers, efficiency losses occur at the distribution stage. Transport workers “lose” the effect during the transportation process, wholesalers lose in the process of storing and sorting goods, and retailers lose in the process of performing purchasing operations.

On the one hand, the listed losses, and on the other, the high level of development of computer technology and information technology allowed the International Association EAN develop a unified standard for labeling cargo packages.

Both the introduction of a standard for pallets and the introduction of a unified standard for labeling cargo packages can radically change the cargo handling system and dramatically increase the efficiency of logistics processes.

The proposed standard provides for marking a cargo package with a special label, which may contain various information: about the product, shelf life, as well as information that allows one to uniquely identify this cargo unit. At the request of the shipper, the label may contain information about the name of the company or other data.

In order for the label to be constantly visible to the operator during processing, it is applied to all four sides of the cargo package.

The benefits of using the EAN label:

• simple and unambiguous identification of the pallet is ensured. The serial code of the transport package is a kind of key that provides access to information stored in the computer;
• the label originally applied by the package supplier can be used by all participants in the “manufacturer-consumer” chain without exception;
• the process of communication between partners is greatly facilitated;
• barcode scanning ensures fast and correct information entry;
• Freight processing time at all stages is repeatedly reduced.

So, we see that at all times the lack of information does not allow us to adequately assess the environment. Making decisions aimed at increasing the efficiency of material flow management activities is impossible without the availability of complete, accurate and reliable information about events and phenomena. The more information logisticians have at their disposal, the better and easier management decisions are made. With the development of scientific and technical progress, automation of systems for organizing information flows will become increasingly important. This is due to the fact that an automated data processing and exchange system reduces paperwork, the possibility of errors, and thus reduces the enterprise’s costs for correcting these errors. Automated information flow management systems allow you to avoid downtime and implement a system of quick response and just-in-time delivery at your enterprises.

1. Logistics information is purposefully collected information necessary to ensure the process of managing the enterprise’s logistics system.

Good information allows an enterprise to gain competitive advantages, reduce financial risk, determine customer attitudes, justify intuitive decisions, increase operational efficiency, monitor the external environment, coordinate strategy, and increase confidence in agreements reached and commitments made.

The logistics information system is a constantly operating system for collecting, classifying, analyzing, evaluating and disseminating relevant, timely and accurate information for use in order to improve planning, implementation and control over the execution of logistics activities.

2. An information system is a certain organized set of interconnected computer equipment, various reference books and the necessary programming tools, which provides the solution of certain functional tasks (in logistics - problems of managing material flows).

Information systems are divided into three groups: planned, discretionary (dispatcher), executive (operational).

Computerization of logistics process management plays a key role in the development of logistics.

Concept, purpose and objectives of information logistics

In modern conditions, powerful flows of products in material form are moving through the sphere of production and circulation towards the final consumer. The range of products is becoming wider from year to year. Requirements for the quality of its promotion processes are becoming more stringent: processes must be faster, more accurate, and more economical. In the actions of the mechanism that ensures the movement of material flows, the highest degree of coordination of individual links must arise - harmony, similar to the harmony of which only a living organism is capable. A necessary condition for the emergence of this consistency is the presence of information systems that, like the central nervous system, are able to quickly and economically bring the right signal to the right point at the right moment.

Features of the construction and functioning of information systems that ensure the functioning of logistics systems are the subject of the study of information logistics.

The goal of information logistics is determined by the general goal of logistics: the right product, in the right place, at the right time with minimal cost. Obviously, in order to implement these rules, the right information must be in the right place at the right time. The quantity and quality of this information must meet the requirements, and the costs associated with its promotion must be minimal.

Thus, the goal of information logistics is to have:

• o necessary information (to manage material flow);
• o in the right place;
• o at the right time;
• o with minimal costs.

Information logistics tools should allow you to plan, manage and control material flows. Therefore, the main objectives of information logistics are:

• o planning logistics needs;
• o analysis of decisions related to the promotion of material flows;
• o management control of logistics processes;
• o integration of supply chain participants.

Scientists from different countries agree that modern development of logistics has been achieved mainly due to the emergence and development of means of data transmission and processing.

Information flows in logistics

One of the key concepts of logistics is the concept of information flow.

Information flow is a set of messages circulating in the logistics system, between the logistics system and the external environment, necessary for the management and control of logistics operations. Information flow can exist in the form of paper and electronic documents.

In logistics, the following types of information flows are distinguished (Fig. 57):

• o depending on the type of storage medium - paper, electronic, mixed;
• o depending on the type of systems connected by the flow - horizontal and vertical;
• o depending on the location of passage - external and internal;

Rice. 57. Types of information flows in logistics

• o depending on the direction in relation to the logistics system - input and output;
• o depending on density - low-intensity, medium-intensity, high-intensity;
• o depending on frequency - regular, operational, random, on-line.

The information flow can be ahead of the material flow, follow simultaneously with it or after it. In this case, the information flow can be directed either in the same direction as the material one, or in the opposite direction:

• o the forward information flow in the opposite direction contains, as a rule, information about the order;
• o advanced information flow in the forward direction - these are preliminary messages about the upcoming arrival of cargo, as well as about the quantitative and qualitative parameters of the material flow;
• o following the material flow in the opposite direction, information about the results of cargo acceptance in terms of quantity or quality, various claims, confirmations can pass.

The path along which the information flow moves, in the general case, may not coincide with the route of the material flow.

The information flow is characterized by the following indicators:

• o source of occurrence;
• o direction of flow;
• o transmission and reception speed;
• o flow intensity, etc.

The formation of information systems discussed in § 12.3-12.7 is impossible without studying flows in the context of certain indicators. For example, solving the problem of equipping a certain workplace with computer technology is impossible without knowing the volume of information passing through this workplace, as well as without determining the required processing speed.

You can control the information flow as follows:

• o changing the direction of flow;
• o limiting the transmission speed to the corresponding reception speed;
• o limiting the volume of flow to the capacity of an individual node or section of path.

Information flow is measured by the amount of information processed or transmitted per unit of time: kilobyte, megabyte and gigabyte.

In business practice, information can also be measured:

• o the number of documents processed or transmitted;
• o the total number of document lines in processed or transmitted documents.

It should be borne in mind that in addition to logistics operations in economic systems, other operations are also carried out, which are also accompanied by the emergence and transmission of information flows.

Let us consider, as an example, the structure of the aggregate information flow in a large grocery store. The bulk of the total volume of information circulating here (more than 50%) is information coming to the store from suppliers. These are, as a rule, documents accompanying the goods arriving at the store, the so-called shipping documents, which, in accordance with the above definitions, form the incoming information flow.

Logistics operations in a store are not limited to receiving goods from suppliers. The intra-store trade and technological process also includes numerous logistics operations, which are accompanied by the emergence and transmission of information used within the store. At the same time, the share of educated information used inside the store is approximately 20%.

In general, approximately 2/3 of the total volume of information processed in the store can be information necessary for monitoring and managing logistics operations. At manufacturing enterprises or wholesale trade enterprises, the share of logistics information flows is even greater.

In the future, instead of the term “logistics information flow” we will use the term “information flow”, without forgetting its purpose - to ensure the functioning of logistics systems.

INTRODUCTION

Information logistics is a part of logistics that organizes the flow of data (information) accompanying the material flow in the process of its movement. Information logistics is the link between supply, production and sales at an enterprise.

Information logistics manages all processes of movement and storage of goods in an enterprise, thereby ensuring timely delivery of these goods in the required quantity, required configuration and required quality from the places of their production to the place of consumption with minimal costs and optimal service.

Basic concepts of information logistics:

information flow;

Information system;

information technology.

The main task of information logistics is to deliver information to and from the enterprise management system. Each level of the enterprise's hierarchical structure should receive only the necessary information within the required time frame.

Information logistics should perform the following functions:

collect emerging information;

analyze information;

move information;

accumulate and store information;

filter the flow of information, that is, select the data and documents necessary for a particular level of management;

combine and separate information flows;

perform basic information transformations;

manage information flow.

Information (economic) - a set of various information operating in economic objects (about social processes of production, distribution, exchange and consumption of material goods and services), which can be recorded, transmitted, transformed and used to implement such management functions as planning, accounting, economic analysis, regulation, etc.

Information logistics

This is a difficult definition, requiring division into several subsections:

1. Structuring into an organized system of information accompanying the material flow. Collection and assembly of data relating to the material flow as a whole.

2. Delivery of material flow data to the required destination, on time and in full.

3. Analysis of the resulting organized (structured) data system. Creation of an optimal information field for a full analysis of material flow data. This is a very important point and without it information logistics is simply impossible, so enterprises should pay special attention to this.

4. Decision making based on final analysis. The final analysis includes not only calculations and expert recommendations, but also, if possible, visualization of the analysis of all data obtained.

5. Search for suitable performers and entrust employees with information logistics solutions in their entirety. Monitoring compliance with this phase of the operation. It is important that the executors understand all the decisions that they must carry out and then the information strategy of the enterprise will be successful.

The importance of creating and using information systems in logistics systems

The process of MP management is based on the processing of information circulating in logistics systems. A necessary condition for the coordinated operation of all parts of the LC is the presence of information systems that, like the central nervous system, are able to quickly and economically bring the required signal to the desired point at the right moment. One of the most important conditions for the successful functioning of production as a whole is the presence of an information system that would make it possible to link together all activities (supply, production, transport, warehousing, distribution, etc.) and manage it based on the principles of a single whole. At the current level of development of social production, it has become obvious that information is independent production factor, the potential of which opens up broad prospects for strengthening the competitiveness of firms. Information flows are the connecting threads on which all elements of the logistics system are strung.

Information logistics organizes the data flow that accompanies the MP, is engaged in the creation and management of information systems (IS), which technically and programmatically ensure the transfer and processing of logistics information. Subject studying information logistics are the features of the construction and functioning of the IS that ensure the functioning of the drug. Purpose information logistics is the construction and operation of information systems that ensure the availability : 1) the necessary information (for MP management); 2) in the right place; 3) at the right time; 4) required content (for the decision maker); 5) with minimal costs.

With the help of information logistics and the improvement on its basis of planning and management methods in companies of leading industrial countries, a process is currently taking place, the essence of which is replacing physical inventory with reliable information .

Information flow. Types of information flows. Interrelation of information and material flows

Each MP corresponds to a certain information flow. Information flow (IP) – this is a flow of messages in speech, document (paper and electronic) and other forms, generated by the original MP in the drug in question, between the drug and the external environment and intended for the implementation of control functions. In table 1 shows one of the possible classifications of IP.

There is no one-to-one correspondence between MP and IP, i.e. synchronicity in the time of occurrence, direction, etc. The individual entrepreneur can be ahead of the MP (negotiations, conclusion of contracts, etc.) or lag behind it (information about the receipt of the delivered goods):
· leading information flow in oncoming the direction contains, as a rule, information about the order;
· leading information flow in direct direction – these are preliminary messages about the upcoming arrival of cargo;
· simultaneously with the material flow comes information in direct direction on quantitative and qualitative parameters of MP;
· following behind the material flow in oncoming the direction may contain information about the results of cargo acceptance in terms of quantity or quality, various claims, confirmations.

It is possible that there are several IPs accompanying MP.

Table 1

Classification of information flows

Classification sign	Type of individual entrepreneur
Attitude to the drug and its links	Internal, external, horizontal, vertical, input, output
Type of storage media	On paper, on magnetic media, optical, digital, electronic
Frequency of use	Regular, periodic, operational
Purpose of information	Directive (managerial), normative and reference, accounting and analytical, auxiliary
Degree of openness	Open, closed, secret
Data transfer method	By courier, mail, telephone, telegraph, teletype, e-mail, fax, telecommunication networks
Communication mode	"on-line", "off line"
Orientation relative to MP	In the forward direction with MP, in the opposite direction with MP
Synchronicity with MP	Leading, simultaneous, subsequent

Information system. Types of information systems at the micro level

Information system – This is a certain organized set of interconnected computer hardware and software that allows solving certain functional tasks, for example, in logistics - tasks for managing MP. Most often, IS is divided into two subsystems: functional and supporting. Functional subsystem consists of a set of tasks to be solved, grouped based on common goals. Supporting subsystem includes the following elements: technical support, i.e. a set of technical means that ensure the processing and transmission of information flows; informational software, including various reference books, classifiers, codifiers, means of formalized description of data; software, i.e. a set of methods for solving functional problems.

At the micro level, the following three types of IP are distinguished:

1) Planned ISs are created at the administrative level of management to make long-term decisions: creation and optimization of supply chain links; production planning; general inventory management; reserve management, etc.

2) Dispositive or dispatching information systems are created at the level of warehouse or workshop management to ensure smooth operation of drugs, to make decisions for the medium and long term: management of intra-warehouse or intra-factory transport; selection of goods according to orders and their completion; accounting of shipped goods; detailed inventory management.

3) Executive ISs are created at the level of administrative or operational management to perform everyday affairs in real time: control of MP; operational management of production services; motion control, etc.

In planned information systems, problems are solved that connect drugs with the total MP. At the same time, end-to-end planning is carried out in the “sales-production-supply” chain, which makes it possible to create an effective production organization system built on market requirements, with the issuance of the necessary requirements to the logistics system of the enterprise. In this way, planned systems seem to “link” the logistics system into the external environment, into the total material flow.

Dispositional and executive systems detail planned plans and ensure their implementation at individual production sites, warehouses, as well as at specific workplaces.

Vertical and horizontal integration of information systems

In accordance with the concept of logistics, information systems belonging to different groups are integrated into a single IS. There are vertical and horizontal integration. Vertical integration The connection between the planned, dispositive and executive systems through vertical information flows is considered. Horizontal integration the connection between individual sets of tasks in the dispositive and executive systems through horizontal information flows is considered.

Automated information systems

Information logistics creates automated information systems. Their tasks include:

· Constantly providing the management bodies of the logistics system with reliable information about order movement.

· Constantly providing enterprise employees with adequate information about the movement of products in real time.

· Operational management of the enterprise.

· Providing management with visual information about the use of investments.

· Providing information about expenses.

· Help in identifying bottlenecks.

· Ensuring the ability to assess the timing of execution of received orders.

· Ensuring profitable operation of the enterprise by optimizing logistics processes.

Use of automatic barcode identification technology in logistics

A large number of units of goods pass through each link in the logistics chain. At the same time, within each link, goods are repeatedly moved to storage and processing locations. “The entire system of movement of goods is a continuously pulsating discrete flow, the speed of which depends both on the potential (power) of production, the rhythm of deliveries, the size of available stocks, and on the speed of sales and consumption.” In order to be able to effectively manage this dynamic logistics system, it is necessary at any time to have detailed information about the material flows entering and leaving it, as well as about the material flows circulating within it. As evidenced by foreign and domestic experience, this problem is solved by using microprocessor technology capable of identifying (recognizing) an individual cargo unit when carrying out logistics operations with material flow. We are talking about equipment capable of scanning (reading) a variety of bar codes. This equipment allows you to obtain information about a logistics operation at the time and place of its completion - in warehouses of industrial enterprises, wholesale depots, stores, and in transport. The received information is processed in real time, which allows the control system to respond to it in the optimal time frame.

Automatic collection of information is based on the use of barcodes of different types, each of which has its own technological advantages. For example, a code with a rectangular outline - the ITF-14 code is printed much easier than other codes, which allows it to be used on corrugated packaging. Used for coding product lots.

To encode a large amount of information on a limited surface, a 2 of 5 interleaved code can be used."

In logistics, in addition to other codes, code 128 can be used. Additional information, batch number, production date, sell-by date, etc. can be encoded with this code.

In the field of circulation, the EAN code is widely used, which can often be found on consumer goods. Let's take a closer look at the technology of using the EAN code in logistics processes.

The use of automatic bar code identification technology in logistics can significantly improve the management of material flows at all stages of the logistics process. Let us note its main advantages. In production :

Creation of a unified system for accounting and monitoring the movement of products and their components at each site, as well as the state of the logistics process at the enterprise as a whole;

Reducing the number of support staff and reporting documentation, eliminating errors.

In warehousing :

Automation of accounting and control of material assets;

Automation of the material inventory process;

Reducing time for logistics operations with material and information flow.

In trade :

Creation of a unified material flow accounting system;

Automation of ordering and inventory of goods:

Reducing customer service time.

Conclusion

Studying the topic “Information Logistics” allowed us

1) highlight its main concepts, tasks and functions;

2) consider its main sections - information flow, information system, information technology;

3) get acquainted with the hierarchy of use of the logistics information system and its functions.

Goals of creating an information system :

1) ensuring the survival and functionality of the logistics system;

2) ensuring movement and timely acceptance of material flow;

3) elimination of errors and inaccuracies in obtaining information and its use;

4) expanding the functions of the logistics system in accordance with market requirements;

5) providing information links with the external and internal environment of the logistics system.

Basic principles of building an information system :

1) hierarchy (subordination of tasks and use of data sources); 2) data aggregation (accounting requests at different levels); . 3) redundancy (construction taking into account not only current, but also future tasks); 4) confidentiality; 5) adaptability to changing demands; 6) consistency and information unity (determined by the development of a system of indicators that would exclude the possibility of uncoordinated actions and the output of incorrect information); 7) openness of the system (for replenishing data).

Main tasks solved using information systems :

1) collection of factual data, primary analysis of production and consumption; 2) analysis of production dynamics; 3) analysis of demand for a given type of product for a given type of enterprise; 4) functional analysis of products from the point of view of a given consumer; 5) analysis of the elasticity of demand for a given type of product for a given group of consumers depending on price; 6) analysis of the possibilities of supplying other types of products to this group of enterprises; 7) analysis of new markets; 8) analysis and forecast of the functioning of the enterprise; 9) analysis of sales and technological leaps in production; 10) the general task of forming an optimal nomenclature production program for the enterprise;

11) generalized analysis of technological, marketing and raw material production capabilities; 12) determining the enterprise’s strategy for personnel, production and product promotion; 13) general analysis and forecast of production and sales of these products.

When using logistics systems we can:

Have information about the information that the logistics information system should provide;

Develop (based on available information) a material flow forecast;

Imagine an integrated flow of information;

Use an information system with feedback in the logistics system.

List of used literature:

1. A textbook for preparing for the final interdisciplinary exam of professional training of a manager. Under the general editorship. V.E. Lankina, 2006.

2. Gadzhinsky A.M. Logistics: Textbook for higher and secondary specialized educational institutions. - No. ed., revised. and additional – M.: Information and implementation center “Markuting”, 2000.

Logistics information system
Information flows
Types of information flows used
Construction principles
Information technology in logistics

9.1. Logistics information system

Whoever owns information rules the world.

Information logistics is an integral part of the entire logistics system, providing a functional area of ​​logistics management. The object of study of information logistics is information flows that reflect the movement of material, financial and other flows affecting the production process. The main goal is to provide logistics systems with information at the right time, in the right volume and in the right place.


Information logistics is used to provide information to the entire organization as a whole based on logistics principles.


Information flow - generated by material flow. In information logistics, information flow is considered only in the logistics system, between the links of the logistics system or between the external environment and the logistics system.


Any logistics system consists of a set of elements-links, between which certain functional connections and relationships are established. The direct working link of the information system can be an automated workplace for management personnel, an information unit of an organization's management system, or a separate group of management employees united by a commonality of information functions (procedures, operations).


The goal of managing an organization is the effective use of all technical, scientific, economic, organizational and social opportunities to achieve high performance results of the organization.



Goals of creating an information system:
ensure the survival and viability of the company;
providing employees with up-to-date information that facilitates a more efficient work process;
compliance with the targeting of information;
eliminating confusion in obtaining information and using it;
expanding the functions of the enterprise in accordance with market requirements.

A logistics information system is an interactive structure that includes personnel, equipment and procedures (technologies), which are united by an information flow used by logistics management to plan, regulate, control and analyze the functioning of the logistics system.

Basic principles of building an information system:
hierarchy (subordination of tasks and use of data sources);
principle of data aggregation (accounting requests at different levels);
redundancy (building taking into account not only current, but also future tasks);
confidentiality;
adaptability to changing demands;
consistency and information unity (determined by the development of a system of indicators that would exclude the possibility of uncoordinated actions and the output of incorrect information);
openness of the system (for replenishing data).

Information function is a purposeful, specialized type of management activity generated by an information system and characterized by uniformity of actions with information of any type.

An information network is a set of computer and software tools and users of information resources, united by a single information channel for the purpose of efficient processing and transmission of information flows.

9.2. Information flows

The effective use of information logistics lies in the rational management of information flow throughout the entire logistics network at all hierarchical levels.


Information flow is a set of messages circulating in the logistics system, between the logistics system and the external environment, necessary for the management, analysis and control of logistics operations. The information flow can exist in the form of paper and electronic documents (media).


Information flows in logistics systems have their own specific features that distinguish them from all other types of information flows. These features depend on the properties of logistics systems.

Logistics information flows have the following characteristics:

heterogeneity (information used in logistics systems is qualitatively heterogeneous);
multiplicity of divisions - information suppliers;
multiplicity of divisions - consumers of information;
complexity and difficulty of practical visibility of information routes;
multiplicity of the number of transmissions of documentation units along each route;
multiple options for optimizing information flows.

The logistics information flow itself is a rather complex system and is divided into a number of components: details, indicators, documents and arrays.

Props are the elementary unit of a message. The requisite characterizes the quantitative or qualitative component of the information set. For example, details - name of the organization, name of the product, price of the product, etc. Each attribute can be represented by a set of symbols: digital, alphabetic, special.


Documents used in the management process may include one or more indicators with mandatory certification (signature or seal) of the person responsible for the information contained in the documents. Since obtaining initial data is the sphere of human activity, most documents are created at the stage of data collection and registration, although a considerable proportion of documents enter the system from external (superior, etc.) organizations. For example, in accounting an indicator, its basis is the result of counting, weighing, etc. It serves as the basis for obtaining consolidated accounting and statistical data, which in turn will be input information when compiling statistical reports by organization, industry, region, etc.


An array is a collection of homogeneous data that has a single technological basis and is united by a single semantic content. Data (processes, phenomena, facts, etc.) presented in a formalized form suitable for transmission via communication channels and for processing on a computer. The main elements of arrays that determine their content are records.


Records are array elements that users operate when processing information. Elements of records that have a single semantic meaning are information fields.


Data belonging to one array is recorded according to general rules (in accordance with the technology of accumulation, storage and processing of data adopted in the organization). The type of array is determined by its content (for example, an array of material standards, an array of material suppliers), functions in the data processing process (input, output, intermediate arrays). An information array provided with a symbolic name that uniquely identifies it in the information system is called a file.


Based on the heterogeneity and multiplicity of suppliers and consumers of logistics information flows, and also guided by the main purpose of classification - the streamlining of logistics information flows, the first step in the classification grouping is division according to a criterion that allows the formation of information flows that are homogeneous by type of activity (or function).


It is known that the information flow, as a rule, is expressed in a certain type of documentation (invoices, invoices, orders, etc.). In accordance with the existing division of documentation by type of activity, logistics information flows can be classified into administrative (orders, instructions), organizational (instructions, protocols, regulations), analytical (reviews, summaries, memos), reference (certificates), scientific ( articles, abstracts), technical (safety documentation).


The transmission and reception of information flows is carried out using human memory media, documents, magnetic media, oral speech, etc. Depending on the type of information carrier, logistics information flows can be transmitted to paper, electronic, or mixed. An information carrier is any material means that records information. Currently, paper and electronic media are used to register information. The information flow may consist of paper and electronic media that duplicate or complement each other.


In order for a person to perceive any type of information, it must be indicated.

Depending on the indication, information flows are divided into:

digital (digital recording in a document, digital image on a monitor);
alphabetical (verbal recording in a document, on a monitor screen);
symbolic (conventional image in drawings, organizational charts);
subject-visual (television image, photograph).

The structure of information flows determines their homogeneity and heterogeneity. Homogeneous information flows are characterized by a single type of media, a single functional affiliation, and a single type of documentation support. Heterogeneous information flows accordingly do not meet all of the above requirements.

Based on frequency, information flows are divided into regular, corresponding to time-regulated data transmission, and operational, providing communication at any necessary point in time.


Based on the degree of interconnection, information flows are divided into interconnected and non-interconnected. The degree of interconnection is characterized by the number of types of information interrelated with a given type of information.


By volume, information flows are divided into low-volume, medium-volume and high-volume. The volume of information is measured by the number of characters (alphabetic, digital and service characters) or bytes.

9.3. Types of information flows used

The main condition for the process of managing material flows is the processing of information circulating in logistics systems.


The information flow can be ahead of the material flow, follow simultaneously with it or after it. In this case, the information flow can be directed either in the same direction as the material one, or in the opposite direction.

The path along which the information flow moves, in the general case, may not coincide with the route of the material flow.

The information flow is characterized by the following indicators:

source of origin;
direction of flow;
transmission and reception speed;
flow intensity, etc.

The moving information flow in the opposite direction contains, as a rule, information about the order. The advanced information flow in the forward direction is preliminary messages about the upcoming arrival of cargo. Simultaneously with the material flow, information flows in the forward direction about the quantitative and qualitative parameters of the material flow. Following the material flow in the opposite direction, information about the results of cargo acceptance by quantity, various claims, and confirmations can pass.

The formation of information systems is impossible without studying flows in the context of certain indicators. For example, solving the problem of equipping a certain workplace with computer technology is impossible without knowing the volume of information passing through this workplace, as well as without determining the required processing speed.


You can quickly and efficiently manage the information flow through the following operations:
redirection of information flow;
limiting the transmission speed to the corresponding reception speed;
reducing or increasing the amount of information in certain sections of the information flow;
limiting the volume of flow to the capacity of an individual node or section of path.
Information systems in logistics can be created for the purpose of managing material flows at the level of an individual enterprise, or they can contribute to the organization of logistics processes in regions, countries, and even groups of countries.


N At the level of an individual enterprise, information systems, in turn, are divided into three groups:
Planned
Dispositive (or dispatch)
Executive (or operational)
Planned information systems are created at the administrative level of management and serve to make long-term decisions of a strategic nature. Among the tasks to be solved may be the following:
creation and optimization of supply chain links;
control of conditionally constants, i.e. low-changing data;
production planning;
general inventory management;
reserve management and other tasks.

Dispositional information systems are created at the warehouse or workshop management level and serve to ensure the smooth operation of logistics systems.

The following tasks can be solved here:

detailed inventory management (local warehousing);
disposal of intra-warehouse (or intra-factory) transport;
selection of goods according to orders and their completion, accounting of shipped goods and other tasks.
Executive information systems are created at the administrative or operational management level. Information processing in these systems is carried out at a pace determined by the capabilities of the software. This is the so-called real-time operating mode, which allows you to obtain the necessary information about the movement of goods at the current time and timely issue the appropriate administrative and control impacts on the control object. These systems can solve a variety of problems related to the control of material flows, operational management of production services, movement management, etc.



9.4. Construction principles


In accordance with the principles of the systems approach, any system must first be studied in relation to the external environment, and only then within its structure. This principle - consistent progression through the stages of publishing a system - must also be observed when designing logistics information systems.


The information support used in a small enterprise can be divided into primary and secondary.


Primary functions include the following:
organization of information arrays;
organization of information flows;
organization of processes and means of collecting, storing, processing and transporting information.

When organizing arrays of information, unified documentation systems and classifiers are used, with the help of which structured arrays of data are created that are used in organizing databases.


The functions of organizing information flows offer the following management procedures:
identification of sources and consumers of information in accordance with special functions and tasks of management;
determining the composition of information, the frequency of its circulation and forms of presentation;
development of document flow;
use of a complex of technical means to organize information flows;
establishing the procedure for drawing up, processing, registering, agreeing and approving documents.

Organization of the process of collecting, storing, processing and transporting information involves:

providing technological processes with the necessary technical means;
distribution between departments and individual performers of tasks for preparing and transmitting information from the place of its origin to the consumer.

The secondary functions of the information support subsystem are to provide management personnel with scientific and technical information about the latest domestic and foreign achievements of science, technology, economics, production technology, advanced domestic and foreign experience in the field of management.


It is obvious that the information support subsystem to perform the above functions must be organized accordingly. The specificity of the activities of the information support subsystem is that in the course of its activities it must be able to influence all functional subsystems of the organization. Thus, the question immediately arises: what place should this subsystem occupy in the enterprise hierarchy?


Currently, there are three possible options for organizing an information support subsystem at enterprises:
centralized;
decentralized;
specialized.

With a centralized method of organization, all information technology activities are concentrated in one department (division) and report directly to the company’s top management responsible for information systems and technologies.


The advantage of a centralized method of organization is to ensure high efficiency of work on the implementation of new information systems and technologies. The disadvantages include the high costs of maintaining the management apparatus.


With a decentralized method of organizing the information support subsystem, specialists from different functional departments perform the functions of managing information systems, each in their own direction.


The advantage of this method of organization is the high level of knowledge of the subject area of ​​the information systems manager; the disadvantage is the duplication of similar tasks and functions in different subsystems.


With a specialized method of organization, there is no department for information systems (technologies). If it is necessary to implement an automated system, these organizations turn to specialized companies and perform work on a contractual basis. This is typical for small organizations that cannot have their own full-time IT specialists and rely on consultants.


The advantage of this method of organizing an information support subsystem is the high level of scientific and methodological developments, the disadvantage is the difficulty of taking into account all the specific features of the object.


The choice of one or another method of organizing an information support subsystem at an enterprise depends on many factors, and, above all, the size of the organization, the management system, the business processes existing in it, and the availability of available funds. It should only be noted that the information support subsystem has now reached such a level of specialization that it requires close attention to its organization. Modern managers understand this, and any organization, even the smallest one, includes information services.



9.5. Information technology in logistics


The use of computer technology and modern software can significantly improve the speed and quality of management decisions. The current state of logistics and its development has largely been shaped by the rapid development and implementation of information and computer technologies in all areas of business. The implementation of most logistics concepts (systems) such as SDP, JIT, DDT, and others would be impossible without the use of high-speed computers, local area networks, telecommunication systems and information software.


A variety of information flows circulating within and between the elements of the logistics system, the logistics system and the external environment form a unique logistics information system, which can be defined as an interactive structure consisting of personnel, equipment and procedures (technologies), united by related information used by logistics management for planning, regulation, control and analysis of the functioning of the logistics system.


If automated information processing is carried out in an information system, then the technical support includes computer equipment and means of communication between the computers themselves.

The widespread penetration of logistics into the field of production management is largely due to the computerization of material flow management. The computer has become an everyday tool for workers in a wide variety of specialties; people have learned to use it and trust it. Computer software makes it possible to solve complex information processing issues at every workplace. This ability of microprocessor technology makes it possible to approach the management of material flows from a systemic perspective, ensuring the processing and mutual exchange of large amounts of information between various participants in the logistics process.


When implementing logistics functions at an enterprise, the main directions of the work program are:
technical means are determined to carry out the program task;
requirements for quality characteristics are drawn up and the required amount of financial and labor resources is determined;
determination of basic methods for generating program tasks;
choice of organizational form for implementing program tasks;
drawing up a network model for performing stages and work;
development of a system of evaluation criteria and motivations for action;
organization of control, accounting and evaluation of work progress.

A logical system in production is only effective when conditions are created for its integration into current production and commercial processes. This problem is solved by creating an information base corresponding to this type of production and its volume and other characteristics of the production structure of enterprises.
This also includes “up-to-date reviews” of funds (availability of actual and planned orders, maintenance of production main and intermediate warehouses) and deadlines (deliveries, processing, waiting, downtime, meeting deadlines).
To collect this data, the production system throughout the enterprise has “sensors and measuring instruments” that monitor the volume and timing of ongoing processes.

The logical system places the following requirements on its computer network:

fast and reliable, preferably automated collection of information and data on vehicles and means of production;
structuring an in-production decision support information system, which at every moment contains up-to-date information about the progress of production processes for each section of the enterprise.

Currently, paperless information exchange technologies are widely distributed between partners. In transport, instead of numerous documents accompanying the cargo (especially in international traffic), information is transmitted synchronously with the cargo via communication channels (Internet), containing all the necessary characteristics of the goods and details about each shipped unit. With such a system, on all sections of the route, at any time, it is possible to obtain comprehensive information about the cargo and, based on this, make management decisions. The logistics system allows the shipper to access files reflecting the status of transport services and transport load.

An automatic documentary exchange is possible between manufacturers of goods and large stores, including the exchange of invoices and transport offices when sending goods directly from the manufacturer to the buyer. With the help of paperless information exchange technology, the buyer can directly place purchase orders.


Electronic data exchange is a process that allows you to establish communication between companies using computers, to conclude a deal using global and local computer networks that directly organize interaction between computers of different companies. To realize these opportunities, companies enter into standard exchange protocols and enter into contracts among themselves.

Material flow management is based on the processing of information that circulates in logistics systems. The goal of information logistics is to obtain the necessary information to manage material flows in the right place and at the right time, with minimal costs for its processing. Using information logistics tools, material flows are planned and monitored.

The main tasks of information logistics are: planning logistics needs, analyzing decisions made on the organization of material flows, monitoring the management of logistics processes, integrating participants in the supply chain. Using information logistics tools, material flows are planned and monitored.

The presence of a developed information structure of production allows servicing production processes in two directions - horizontal and vertical integration of the logistics system. Horizontal integration allows you to connect information and provide it with material flow in the chain of receipt of goods and raw materials, their preliminary processing, inspection and sales. In addition, it links material and commodity flows with the overall planning and management system at the production and firm levels.

Vertical integration The logistics information system provides communication and interaction between various levels of the production management structure at the stage of strategic planning for the development of production and sales and operational management at the level of individual production sites. It also allows, with the help of direct and feedback connections, to obtain the necessary information about the state of production and promptly influence ongoing changes in the production process.

The main task of the information system is to provide the necessary information about the state of the sales market and sales volumes, reducing administrative and business costs.

There are also external and internal, input and output information flows. The information flow can be ahead of the material flow, follow simultaneously with it or after it. It can be directed either in the same direction as the material flow, or in the opposite direction.

Material flow is characterized by a number of indicators: source of origin, direction, intensity of receipt and speed of information transfer. Thus, to equip a workplace with computer technology, it is necessary to determine the amount of information passing through a given work area, the speed of its receipt and processing.

An important task is the management of material flow, which may be associated with changing the direction of the flow, limiting the speed of information transfer in certain sections of its passage.

Information systems in logistics can be of three types: planned, dispositive (or dispatch) and executive (or operational). They are shown schematically in Fig. 4.1 *.

Let's briefly look at their contents.

Planned information systems are created at the enterprise administration level to make strategic decisions, for example, on the creation and optimization of supply chain links, production planning, inventory management, etc.

Dispositive information systems are formed at the level of warehouse process management. In this case, they can decide

tasks for managing inventories at storage areas, internal warehouse processes, operations for selecting products for shipment, picking and accounting for cargo shipments.

Rice. 4.1.

Executive information systems are created at the level of operational and administrative management. Information is processed as it is received by electronic computing means to account for the movement of material flows in order to make appropriate management decisions. This allows you to solve problems related to the control of material flows, production management and warehouse processes.

Multi-level automated materials management systems require large development costs. In the field of logistics, when creating automated control systems, relatively inexpensive standard software is developed taking into account specific conditions.

The effectiveness of implementing logistics information systems can be calculated based on savings from:

• reducing the time it takes to complete the process thanks to advanced information flow, which allows you to optimize subsequent transport, warehouse, loading and unloading warehouse operations and production processes;
• reduction of inventory and production inventories as a result of reducing the risks associated with their creation. Timely receipt of information makes it possible to take prompt measures to partially replace stocks located in the warehouses of industrial enterprises and in the sphere of circulation;
• rational use of resources thanks to timely received information on the rational use of vehicles, loading and unloading mechanisms and production personnel, which helps to save production costs;
• improving the quality of the logistics process in the links of the supply chain. This allows us to ensure consistency in the timing of the production process and timely response to possible failures of the production process;
• reducing paper costs due to the end-to-end flow of information from one system to another. As a result, there is no need to register it multiple times, which eliminates possible errors;
• reducing errors in cases where electronic exchange between partner information systems is limited to only one data entry location. At the same time, the costs of updating data both for carrying out calculations and for creating new documents using retrospective data are reduced.