Evaluation of a transport and logistics IT tool -A case study of ABB

Abstract

Executive Summary
This thesis report presents a framework to be used for evaluating IT tools to
support transport and logistic
be split into three steps show
applied on ABB to provide a decision basis and rationale to invest in a logistics IT
tool.
• The pre-study aims
is set up, to ide
improve the performance of
criteria on which the IT tools should be evaluated
investment as well as benefit
calculation.
• The screening and evaluation process
different solutions and show their strengths and weaknesses based on the
evaluation criteria
• The cost-benefit calculation
can expect to deliver. The identified cost
presented on the following page
estimation rationale needs to be
the solution selected in the evaluation process and the current set up of
the organization.
1
logistics processes. The framework proposes the process to
shown in the figure below. The framework has been
to reach good understanding on how the organi
identify weaknesses and how an IT tool can support an
processes. The pre-study also identifies
and cost driver of th
drivers to be used in the cost
should give a fair assessment of the
categories identified in the pre-study.(figure below)
estimates what impact the selected solu
and benefit drivers are
page. For each cost and benefit driver an
defined. This rationale will be specific for
roposes organization
and
the
the
ers cost-benefit
igure solution
2
Potential benefits will present
themselves where the current
logistics processes are weak. The
drivers that present the largest
benefit potential are also areas
that should be prioritized in the
implementation phase.
When applying the process for
ABB purposes a number of
external as well as two already
internally established systems
where evaluated. One of the internal systems was chosen as the preferred
solution to be piloted on a larger scale.
The presented framework will also work as a guideline for assessing other
types of IT tools then just transport and logistics specific ones. In this case,
new functional requirements, cost and benefit drivers and their rationale,
have to be identified for the business processes the IT tool aims to support.
It is important to note that when using a framework, like the one
presented and discussed in this thesis, a pragmatic approach should be
applied. Just as important as finding the best suited IT tool, the
implementation process is absolute key to achieve the potential benefits
that the IT tool can deliver.

• author: Sanne, David
• supervisor: Carl-Johan Asplund
• organization: Production Management
• course: MIO920
• year: 2010
• type: M1 - University Diploma
• subject: Technology and Engineering
• other publication id: 10/5347
• language: English
• id: 1977162
• date added to LUP: 2011-06-16 16:09:45
• date last changed: 2011-06-20 12:47:57