Reengineering of logistics processes as the basis for the establishment and operation of logistics centres in the construction industry

Abstract

Introduction. Digital and technological transformations of the national economy and the investment and construction sector as its integral part determine the need for the qualitative transformation of technical solutions in respect of both managerial and technological processes, referred to as reengineering in the present-day theory and practice. In turn, not only the main production activity is subject to such transformations, but also supplementary activities, including logistic support. In this regard, there is a contradiction between the transformed research and technology fundamentals of construction processes and traditional forms, as well as practical implementation patterns. In the field of logistics, this problem can be solved by logistics centres that are closely related to production and engineering structures. The purpose of the study is to establish a scientific rationale for the logistics efficiency intensification and improvement using logistics centres amid digital and technological transformation of the construction industry. This mission determines the following research tasks: establishing the nature of changes in flow management patterns applied to material and technical resources in the construction industry; proposing new configurations of these flows using logistics centres, determine the their position in the overall corporate structure. It is for the first time that this problem is formulated this way, which indicates its originality. The study is focused on logistics processes and their reengineering. Logistics centres are chosen as the subject of the study. Its practical value is a combination of the reengineering theory and new corporate structures such as production, engineering and logistics centres focused on intensifying processes of construction and enhancing the quality of the output. Materials and methods. The theory of logistics of regulatory impacts is used as the main methodological approach. Structural and functional analysis is used to confirm certain assumptions. Earlier research, as well as publications of local and foreign researchers, was used by the authors as the source data. Results. An organizational chart is proposed for the establishment and operation of a logistics centre in the construction industry; principal diagrams are developed for the flows of materials and resources; they are used to demonstrate interaction between a construction facility and a logistics centre. Conclusions. A logistics centre is a promising tool for modernizing and intensifying the logistic support of construction processes; it unlocks a high potential for the economic efficiency and competitiveness, cuts hidden losses and is primarily determined by lower downtime and a smaller amount of in-house and external defective construction products.