Abstract
M.Com. (Business Management)
In the current economic environment, companies consider information systems to optimise operations by reducing costs and improving productivity.
The fertilizer industry is coming increasingly under pressure every day due to rising costs and inconsistent weather conditions. Some of these limitations can be controlled and managed, but it is important for fertilizer producers to properly understand the system constraints in order to address associated issues.
Supply Chain Management (SCM) and logistics activities are identified as key success factors in organisations and creates value throughout the entire supply chain. The transport activity plays a major part in SCM and logistics activities, which is recognised as one of the main drivers of success in the supply chain.
One of the key focus areas in the fertiliser industry is inbound and outbound transportation, which requires monitoring and management. The efficient monitoring and management of these areas requires accurate information and companies utilise information systems to obtain relevant information. Customisation is a key factor in information systems whereby companies dictate specific requirements to accommodate specific business processes.
A Transport Management System (TMS) is crucial for improving supply chain operations by measuring the transport activities on a day-to-day basis. The TMS has various types to select from, but a purpose built TMS has the ability to be customised to the organisation’s specification.
The research methods applied include secondary data analysis by means of literature reviews to research the requirements for developing a TMS and the phases involved. Primary data was analysed by way of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews, questionnaires and information from databases and TMSs. During the...