Logistics management: its origin, conceptual evolution and meaning as a contemporary field of study
Date
2003
Authors
Pienaar, W. J.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AOSIS OpenJournals
Abstract
This article traces the origin of the word logistics, outlines its conceptual evolution, and explains the meaning thereof as a field of
study in a contemporary management context. The contextual development of the concept is traced from its origin in Greek, along with
its successive adoption in Late Latin, French and Dutch, up to its contemporary usage in Afrikaans. The article describes the
establishment of the word logistique in French as a military concept during the Napoleonic wars, and its later extension to commercial
usage subsequent to the Second World War. The development of the concept in a commercial context since then is detailed. Contemporary
descriptions of logistics relating to its meaning in a commercial sense are discussed. Thereafter the article offers a contemporary
definition of logistics in a business management context. It indicates how effective business logistics adds value. Finally the primary
activities that form part of the logistics supply chain of products are briefly discussed.
Description
The original publication is available at http://www.satnt.ac.za/
Keywords
Logistics, Contemporary management context, Logistique, Business management
Citation
Pienaar, W.J. 2003. Logistics management: its origin, conceptual evolution and meaning as a contemporary field of study. Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif vir Natuurwetenskap en Tegnologie, 22(2&3), 52-60.