Logistics and interdepartmental integration

Abstract

Suggests that while integration is a term that logistics discusses in an interorganizational context, integration within an interdepartmental integration is not as prevalent. Consequently, a common definition for “integration” is lacking. Literature has provided three characterizations: integration represents interaction or communication activities; integration consists of collaborative activities between departments; and integration is a composite of interdepartmental intraction and interdepartmental collaboration. Adopting the composite view, prescribes that managers and researchers consider integration to be a multidimensional process. Proposes a model is based on this perspective to suggest that different logistics situations will require varying degrees of integration via interaction and collaboration. Managerial implications are discussed for each situation.

Citation

Kahn, K.B. and Mentzer, J.T. (1996), "Logistics and interdepartmental integration", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 26 No. 8, pp. 6-14. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600039610182753