The Partner Selection And Task Allocation Research Of The Dynamic Logistics Alliance

As a new organization form, Dynamic Logistics Alliance (DLA) proves to be an effective approach for logistics companies to tackle market competition, integrate logistics resources, and improve logistics efficiency. Unhealthy relationship with partners and unreasonable task assignment are the major causes for DLA failure. Nevertheless, current studies on the partner selection and task assignment of DLA are quite fragmented, without any systematical arrangement. In response to this situation, this thesis mainly takes the following content into its structure:(1) The thesis carries out an in-depth analysis of the connotation, advantages, and formation motives of DLA, constructs a DLA life cycle model, and clarifies the major tasks in the processes of preparation, building, operation, and disassembly, thus laying solid foundations for other chapters.(2) A process model for the selection of DLA partners is proposed to scale down the range of choice for potential partners; then a DLA partnership assessment indicator system is established in terms of logistics service capability, logistics service cost, logistics service quality, IT proficiency, and cooperative ability; and finally, fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) is adopted to conduct comprehensive assessment and example verification.(3) Priority is given to DLA task assignment. After analyzing the classification, principles, and processes of logistics tasks, this thesis sets up two logistics task assignment models-single-link logistics task assignment model and multiple-link logistics task assignment model, which respectively use membership-based fuzzy optimization method and genetic algorithm to determine the cooperative partner(s) of each subtask as well as the task load of each cooperative partner. Besides, example verification is also presented in the wake of these two models.In task assignment models, this thesis divides logistics tasks into single-link tasks and multiple-link tasks, and considers the influence of logistics sub-tasks on logistics execution time and service quality. Finally, the use of multi-objective optimization reduces total logistics cost, shortens logistics execution time, improves logistics service time, lowers overall punishment enforcement, and increases partners’ satisfaction.(4) A safeguard mechanism for DLA cooperation is established. Firstly, this thesis analyzes the principles and modes relating to DLA benefit distribution, and puts forwards a two-stage benefit distribution strategy; then it establishes the DLA trust mechanism, risk control mechanism, and coordination mechanism; and finally this thesis explores the architecture and operation processes of DLA information platform, in the hope of maintaining DLA partnerships and ensuring the smooth operation of logistics tasks.