ISBN: 0-9658653-4-7 (hard cover with CD-ROM) 319 + xxii pages "Logistics Outsourcing-A Management Guide" by CLM past president Clifford F. Lynch, is CLM's latest "research book" (see www.clm1.org). The book's purposes are to contribute to the understanding of logistics providers and buyers, and to provide a "useful tool for those who are contemplating or implementing a logistics outsourcing relationship." Lynch defines logistics outsourcing as "β¦an arrangement whereby a logistics service provider performs services for a firm that could be, or have been, provided in-house" (p. 2).
After "a brief history" of outsourcing (Chapter 1), Chapter 2 asks "why outsource?" The reasons for outsourcing include improved return on assets, personnel productivity, flexibility, costs, customer service, and information technology (IT). The book also addresses labor, management, and political considerations. Lynch states: "It is far easier to manage one, or a limited number, of providers than it is to manage the individual functions internally" (p. 11). The strategic importance of managing supplier relationships must also be considered. Outsourcing creates opportunities for positive synergy by bringing the core competencies of two companies together. A special type of inter-organizational relationship is required. Thus, outsourcing can be seen as a means to configure logistics resources and competencies.