Massachusetts Institute of Technology
International Logistics
~
Syllabus Spring 2003


 

Class Date Case/Lecture Content Readings Assignment
1 2/5 Introduction to International Logistics This section will introduce the key concepts of international logistics, and compare international and domestic logistics. We will also review the course. Chapter 1 of Flaherty in the packet.  
2 2/10 Role of Logistics in Global Strategy Development This session will explore the role of logistics in total corporate strategy and in the strategic management of global networks. This includes formulating competitive strategy and integrating production, marketing, and information technology to gain competitive advantage. In addition, we will explore international issues in sourcing and the manufacturing-logistics interface.

Article by MacCormack et.al.

Ernst, chapter 2 is also good background.

 
3 2/12 Global Supply Chain Strategy This session will focus on a case study on Li and Fung, a Hong Kong apparel company that has very effectively used a wide web of suppliers. We will explore how this strategy works and the role of logistics in this strategy. Read the case study and be prepared to discuss answers to the questions at the end of the text.

Li and Fung Case Study

Article by Levy

Weiss, "Crafting a Global Logistics Strategy: the Polaroid Experience”

 
4 2/18 Air Transportation Systems This session continues the review of various types of transportation systems and their effect on international logistics. Ernst, Chapter 6  
5 2/19 Transportation Systems Case study on global transportation and strategy. Read “Florida Citrus” and complete the team write-up for questions at the end of the case

"Florida Citrus" Case

Ernst, Chapter 6

Team Write-up 1
6 2/24 Oceean Transportation Systems Air, Ocean and Intermodal systems are the primary options for the international transportation of goods. This section of the course will address the advantages and disadvantages of different transportation systems, and discuss the roles of airports, ports, and shipping conferences in the logistics system. This session will discuss ocean systems. Ernst, Chapter 6

 

7 2/26 Country and Regional Issues This session will explore the specific barriers and characteristics of international logistics, such as import/export regulations, duties, the long distances and lead times, and so forth. In addition, each country has unique customs, cultures, and infrastructure that influence business and logistics systems. This session will include an overview of the world’s major trading regions. A team write-up on the regional logistics information of one country should be submitted. The questionnaire will be posted on the course website.

Article by Cooper, et. al.

Article by Arnold on the seven rules

Team Questionnaire on Regional Uniqueness of Logistics
8 3/3 Case Study on Global Strategy, International Transportation and Sourcing Case study on global strategy, international transportation and sourcing. Read article by Kopczack. Read the case on “Benetton” and prepare a team case write-up.

Article by Kopczack

"Beneton" Case

Team Write-up 2
9 3/5 Modeling Global Supply Chain (I) Supply chain models can be very useful in understanding global supply chains. This session will present an overview of analysis methods and models. Exchange rate risks, which are a complication not present in national logistics, are also addressed. Read the article by Arntzen on Digital. Ernst chapters 8 and 9 are good background for the next two sessions.

Ariticle by Arntzen

Ernst, Chapter 8 and 9

 
10 3/10 Modeling Global Supply Chain (II) Case study in global supply chains. Read Applichem (HBS case) in packet and in teams prepare an analysis of the case using an optimization package such as Excel solver. (You may also read Flaherty, Chapter 5, as general background.) "Applichem" Case

Flaherty, Chpater 5

 
11 3/12 Law, Duties, and International Agreements A look at national law and duties as well as international agreements. How all these political aspects affect global supply chain management. The case study, “Anderson Telecom” will be your individual written assignment.

"Anderson Telecom" Case

Individual Write-up
12 3/17 Summary and Wrap-up For this session, we will review a case that deals with a number of issues and integrates the lessons of the course. Read the case “Hong Kong Dilemma”, and prepare answers to questions that will be distributed. "Hong Kong Dilemma" Case