Logistics management in practice – towards theories of complex logistics

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present findings concerning what logistics managers perceive as being difficult and challenging, and what implications this may have for further advances in the logistics discipline. Design/methodology/approach – The point of departure for this study was to reflect on perceived problems, uncertainties, trends, and solutions in logistics, and how they are handled in the everyday work. The study was exploratory, inspired by grounded theory and aimed at providing grounds for further theory building in the area of real logistics. Findings – The findings of this study was related to human, organizational and social aspects, i.e. how understanding and sense‐making can be accomplished in logistics efforts. A major outcome from this research endeavor was initial, empirically derived arguments toward theories of complex logistics. Research limitations/implications – One primary finding of importance was the identification of understanding and sense‐making of concepts, techniques and models in logistics. Thus, future research is needed to provide insights and guidance on how human factors can be considered and elaborated by management in logistics situations. Practical implications – Logistics complexity needs consideration when logistics processes and phenomena are approached to ensure increase understanding for people involved and affected, and for the sense‐making of logistics phenomena. Originality/value – This paper contributes to knowledge and understanding of uncertainty and challenges in logistics with focus on human aspects and perception. Previously, most research has focused on structural aspects and quantitative factors.