Using lean principles to drive operational improvements in intermodal container facilities
Date
2015
Authors
Olesen, P.
Powell, D.
Hvolby, H.H.
Fraser, K.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Journal of Facilities Management, 2015; 13(3):266-281
Statement of Responsibility
Conference Name
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the use of lean principles to drive operational improvements in intermodal container facilities. Intermodal terminals have an important role in today’s globally complex supply networks. In the case of bottleneck-derived terminalization, operational issues such as achieving effective material flow remains a significant and common challenge. To assist with such challenges, the paper develops a conceptual framework built on the principles of lean.
Design/methodology/approach – In this paper, a theory-building approach is adopted and a lean terminalization framework developed by combining aspects of lean- and intermodal transport theory with practical insights. The framework was developed in conjunction with two intermodal container facilities within the Scandinavian region.
Findings – The conceptual framework demonstrates how lean approaches can be used to identifyimprovement areas, as well as to develop solutions for improved material flow in the context ofintermodal transport operations. The framework can be used to guide the lean implementation processin small to medium intermodal container facilities.
Research limitations/implications – The development of the framework represents the first stage of a two-stage project. The second stage will involve implementing and empirically testing the framework in the practical settings of the two-case facilities.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Access Status
Rights
Copyright 2015 Emerald