Microcomputers versus Mainframes: Use among Logistics and Marketing Professionals

One concern for logistics managers is the use of new technology. Such an example of technology utilization is the use of computers by managers in logistics. Investigates the nature and extent to which mainframe and personal computers are used by logistics management, in contrast to the related business area of marketing. National samples of logistics and marketing professionals responded to a mail survey questionnaire to test hypotheses concerning factors related to the availability of different computer equipment in their organizations and differences between logistics and marketing professionals′ computer access and sources for learning to use computers. The results document widespread availability of sophisticated technology, although the logistics professionals appear to lead the marketing professionals in availability of various hardware. Logistics and marketing professionals also use different methods to learn the use of computers. Further, corporate size and industry are related to computer access. Discusses the implications of these findings.