An exploratory study of the implementation of logistics information systems in small to medium enterprises in Tasmania

The purpose of this paper is to complete a research project on the implementation of logistics information systems in small to medium enterprises in Tasmania. The project consists of various sections such as a literature review, which reviews secondary data and produces gaps that will be filled with primary data sourced through telephone interviews. The use oftelcphone interviews to source data was necessary due to the lack of information available on the subject. The questions asked in the interview where designed in two sections, the first having an external environment perspective and the second being focused on the internal environment of the organisation. A discussion of the issues and areas of importance was conducted utilizing the primary and secondary sources, this method meant that a good understanding of the environment and the organisational perspectives on the implementation of logistics information systems was gained. The results of this study show that participants are aware of the importance of information technology and information systems, but the level of implementation is quite low with many of the systems being quite simple. The benefits of logistics information systems were extensively discussed and it was found that any costs associated with implementation are out weighed by increases in returns, increased efficiency and improved customer satisfaction. After all improvements to the system are determined by the level of satisfaction customers demand, and in order to remain competitive all organisations, regardless of size must be willing to satisfy their needs in order to survive. It is the larger organisations that have realised this and have actively implemented logistics information systems to increase transparency and data exchange