Logistics Brochure

"Logistics is that part of the supply chain process that plans, implements, and controls the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption in order to meet customers' requirements."

-Council of Logistics Management

The Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute's (UGPTI) logistics management program strives to enhance the competitive advantage of North Dakota firms. Market forces have increased the importance of logistics and supply chain management. Some of these forces include transportation deregulation, changes in technology, enhanced customer service requirements, the globalization of the economy, and changes in the relationships between buyers and suppliers. Firms shipping and receiving products in today's environment need efficient effective supply chain management.

Mission Statement

To promote business logistics as a tool for improving efficiency in procurement, inventory management, production, and marketing for North Dakota firms and industry through education, research, and services.

Business Logistics Involves

• transportation
• warehousing & storage
• industrial packaging
• materials handling
• inventory control
• order processing
• customer service levels
• demand forecasting
• procurement
• distribution communications
• plant/warehouse site location
• return goods handling
• parts/service support
• salvage/scrap disposal
• labor availability and costs
• agglomeration effect

In addition to education and research in the above areas, another focus of the logistics program is to conduct feasibility analyses at the firm level. Different types of analysis possible are in the areas of location, inventory, partnering, technology applications, and transportation issues. Funding for analysis may be shared between the client, the Mountain-Plains Consortium, and other sources.

Program Objectives

Education - To train and educate students in the application of business logistics. This will provide students with the tools and knowledge to allow them to be valuable contributors to the business community.

Research - To conduct applied research to add to the basic knowledge of business logistics in the rural setting.

Service - To add value to the business community through an increased awareness and improved understanding of business logistics; and to provide feasibility and operational advice in supply chain management for new and existing firms in North Dakota.

Program Personnel

Logistics project managers:

• Mark Berwick
  (701)231-9594
  mark.berwick@ndsu.edu
• Brenda Lantz
  (720)238-0070
  brenda.lantz@ndsu.edu
• Kimberly Vachal
  (701)231-6425
  kimberly.vachal@ndsu.edu
• And other UGPTI personnel as needed.

This program is being developed in cooperation with the North Dakota Department of Economic Development and Finance and the Manufacturers and Processors Division of the Greater North Dakota Association; and is partially funded by the Mountain-Plains consortium, a member of the University Transportation Centers Program of the U.S. Department of Transportation.