Implementing inventory transparency to temporary storage locations : A solution design experiment in project business

Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a tracking based inventory management system in temporary storage locations of a project delivery chain. To describe the use of tracking based inventory information for improved logistics control in equipment delivery and installation. Design/methodology/approach – A solution design experiment was carried out in 16 temporary storage locations with one original equipment manufacturer and four installation partners. Findings – It is feasible to implement tracking based inventory management in temporary storage locations. The challenge is to ensure that installation partners adopt the system. The benefit is improved logistics control of equipment delivery and installation for the original equipment manufacturer. Research limitations/implications – Tracking information is more useful than conventional stock keeping in project delivery. By monitoring the dwell time of delivery items it is possible to identify and resolve problems in project execution. Practical implications – Inventory management in temporary storage locations help project management, project logistics, and central logistics organizations carry out their work more effectively. Implementation can be based on tracking. Originality/value – The paper's value lies in empirical tests and evaluation of tracking based inventory management in temporary storage locations.