Implementation And Influence Of Crowd-Logistics On The Performance Of The Courier Industry In Ghana
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Date
2023
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KNUST
Abstract
The courier industry has become essential in parcel delivery as orders are expected to be physically delivered to required destinations. A technology-driven platform known as crowd-logistics, has been introduced into the industry to connect riders, vendors, and consumers for the delivery of parcels. This study therefore, is purposed to explore the implementation and influence of crowd-logistics on the performance of the courier industry in Ghana. Interest in the crowd-logistics subject is because, courier operations within the last mile in recent times have been regarded the least efficient, most expensive, time-consuming, and non-sustainable component of logistics operations. The study utilized the exploratory research design approach and the qualitative research method to allow for first-hand knowledge from the crowd-logistics system providers due to the dearth of scientific literature. The findings revealed that, crowd-logistics in Ghana is a technology-based system, characterized in two models; “peer-to-peer” and “business-to-peer”. Secondly, the system allows for parcels to be delivered on-time at relatively cheaper cost, while being challenged by non-availability of courier investors, non-professional riders, cyber-attacks and hacking. Also, the system offers economic, social, environmental, and technological opportunities; though there exist threats of, poor and expensive telecom network, driver platform switches, competition, and industry regulations. Unlike other countries, crowd-logistics’ operation in Ghana is such that, system providers assist drivers in the acquisition of vehicles on lease or credit. This should not be the responsibility of the platform provider, but due to the low level of investment in the industry and the need to keep trusted and bonded drivers. Prior delivery, it is recommended that, parcels are physically inspected to confirm their legality; whiles those in transit are insured against any loss or damage. It is also recommended the need for a more responsive feedback system, whiles adopting the USSD code mode for placing requests from non-smart phones and technology illiterates. Essentially, it is required for management to invest into research, development and innovation to stay updated in the industry. Couriers must therefore look forward to a more efficient and effective industry that is likely to be laden with advanced technology applications.
Description
A thesis submitted to the department of information systems and decision sciences of the kwame nkrumah university of science and technology school of business, kumasi, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of master of philosophy in logistics and supply chain management