Logistics technology transfer process model

Abstract

A consecutive number of studies on the adoption trend of logistics technology since 1988 revealed that logistics organizations are not in the frontier when it comes to adopting new technology and this delayed adoption creates an information gap. Given the integrative nature of logistics technology, failure to implement the technology successfully could result in writing off major investments in developing and implementing the technology or even in abandoning the strategic initiatives underpinned by these innovations. Consequently, the need to employ effective strategies and models to cope with these uncertainties is crucial. This research addresses the aspect of uncertainty in implementation success by process research models. Process research approach focuses on the sequence of events in the technology transfer process that occur over time. Through the use of optimal matching from natural science and cluster analysis, this research revealed four patterns that organizations follow when transferring logistics technology namely, formal minimalist, mutual adaptation, development concerned, and organizational roles dispenser. Analysis of the relationship between these patterns and success pointed to a set of crucial and necessary events which differ from one pattern to another.