Logistics Engineering Course

Lesson 1 • Performance Metrics and KPIs

Introduces quantitative measures for cost, time, reliability, and flexibility. Enables students to evaluate logistics system effectiveness objectively.

Lesson 2 • Logistics Engineering Process Model

Presents a structured design-analyse-optimise process for logistics engineering projects. Frames the workflow students will apply throughout the course.

Lesson 3 • Defining Logistics Engineering

Covers the scope, objectives, and historical evolution of logistics engineering. Provides the conceptual baseline for all subsequent technical content.

Lesson 1 • Quantitative Forecasting Methods

Covers moving averages, exponential smoothing, and regression-based models. Students apply each method and compare accuracy outcomes.

Lesson 2 • Demand Characteristics and Patterns

Analyses trend, seasonality, cyclicality, and randomness in demand data. Grounds forecasting model selection in observed demand behaviour.

Lesson 3 • Collaborative and Integrated Planning

Introduces sales and operations planning and collaborative forecasting frameworks. Connects demand signals across functions to improve logistics responsiveness.

Lesson 1 • Deterministic Inventory Models

Derives and applies EOQ, EPQ, and quantity discount models under known demand. Builds analytical skills before introducing uncertainty.

Lesson 2 • Inventory Performance and Auditing

Covers inventory turnover, days on hand, and cycle counting procedures. Connects measurement to continuous improvement of inventory control systems.

Lesson 3 • Stochastic Inventory Models

Extends inventory modelling to uncertain demand using probabilistic approaches. Students calculate safety stock and reorder points for target service levels.

Lesson 4 • Multi-Echelon and ABC Classification

Addresses inventory across distribution tiers and prioritisation by value and criticality. Enables differentiated policies for complex product portfolios.

Lesson 1 • Material Handling Equipment

Surveys conveyors, forklifts, automated guided vehicles, and sortation systems. Connects equipment selection to throughput, cost, and safety requirements.

Lesson 2 • Warehouse Management Systems

Covers WMS functionality for receiving, putaway, picking, and shipping. Links system capabilities to operational accuracy and labour management.

Lesson 3 • Warehouse Functions and Types

Classifies warehouses by function, ownership, and automation level. Frames design decisions within operational and strategic context.

Lesson 4 • Order Picking Strategies

Compares discrete, batch, zone, and wave picking methods for efficiency. Enables students to match picking strategy to order profile and volume.

Lesson 1 • Intermodal and Multimodal Transport

Covers container standards, transshipment points, and intermodal coordination. Prepares students to design multi-leg freight solutions.

Lesson 2 • Transportation Network Design

Applies network modelling to optimise hub-and-spoke and direct-route configurations. Integrates mode selection with facility location decisions.

Lesson 3 • Freight Costing and Rate Structures

Explains carrier pricing, accessorial charges, and total landed cost calculation. Enables accurate cost comparison across transportation alternatives.

Lesson 4 • Transportation Modes and Characteristics

Compares road, rail, air, sea, and pipeline modes on cost, speed, and capacity. Provides the selection framework used throughout the chapter.

Lesson 1 • Capacity Planning in Networks

Addresses capacity sizing, scalability, and flexibility in network nodes. Links capacity decisions to demand uncertainty and capital investment.

Lesson 2 • Facility Location Models

Covers centre-of-gravity, p-median, and mixed-integer programming location models. Students apply each model to realistic facility siting problems.

Lesson 3 • Network Optimisation with Software

Applies commercial network design tools to build, solve, and validate models. Develops practical proficiency in translating business problems into model inputs.

Lesson 4 • Global Network Considerations

Extends network design to international sourcing, tariffs, and risk factors. Prepares students to evaluate global vs. regional supply configurations.

Lesson 1 • Simulation Concepts and Methodology

Introduces simulation types, model components, and the simulation study process. Establishes the methodological foundation for all simulation work in the chapter.

Lesson 2 • Input Data Analysis and Modelling

Covers data collection, distribution fitting, and input validation for simulation. Ensures model inputs accurately represent real logistics system behaviour.

Lesson 3 • Simulation-Based Decision Making

Applies simulation to compare logistics design alternatives and evaluate policies. Connects simulation outputs to actionable engineering recommendations.

Lesson 4 • Building Logistics Simulation Models

Guides construction of warehouse, transportation, and queuing simulation models. Develops hands-on modelling skills using simulation software.

Lesson 1 • Project Scoping and Requirements

Defines project objectives, constraints, stakeholders, and success criteria for logistics projects. Translates business needs into engineering requirements.

Lesson 2 • Cost Estimation and Business Case

Covers capital and operating cost estimation, ROI, and payback analysis for logistics investments. Enables students to justify projects to financial decision-makers.

Lesson 3 • Project Planning and Scheduling

Applies work breakdown structures, Gantt charts, and critical path methods to logistics projects. Builds scheduling competency for complex multi-team initiatives.

Lesson 4 • Implementation and Change Management

Addresses cutover planning, pilot testing, and organisational change for logistics system deployments. Bridges technical design and successful operational adoption.