Abstract
M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
Blanchard (1998) considers Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) as a management tool providing controls ensuring that the product or the system meets its anticipated performance requirements and receive adequate technical and operational support throughout its life cycle. Organisations globally conduct gigantic projects in various sectors such as manufacturing, services and merchandising. An increase in project size, project cost, project complexity, advanced technology and strategic importance, enforces organisations to apply ILS practice (Jones, 2006). The practice of ILS ensures that the benefits realised from the system and the system’s life-cycle support is adequately and cost-effectively managed (Jones, 2006). Transnet conducts a programme of acquiring 1 064 locomotives to improve operational efficiencies and to attract new business.
The purpose of this research is to assess the effectiveness of ILS elements in Transnet, supporting the locomotive life-cycle. The research comprises a problem statement, literature review, research methodology, data analysis, and a conclusion. The literature is developed and tested at Transnet through survey techniques. Questionnaires are sent to 110 potential respondents and 95 participants responded. The data is analysed using weighted average per question whereby the targeted average score per question is ≥80%. Responses from respondents indicate that most ILS elements are effective though certain elements still need improvements. Elements that are ineffective are manpower adequacy level and inventory management systems. Chapter 5 presents a conclusion and recommendations to close gaps on elements that did not meet the targeted score.