RECOMMENDED READING LIST OFF THE SHELF
A
rmy leaders have always encouraged their Soldiers to read. Even—and especially—in this age of information overload, the pursuit of knowledge through books is essential to develop a fuller
understanding of acquisition, logistics and technology. In the words of GEN Raymond T. Odierno, chief of staff of the Army, “We can never spend too much time reading and
thinking about the Army profession and its interaction with the world at large. … Tere is simply no better way to prepare for the future than a disciplined, focused commitment to a personal course of reading, study, thought, and reflection.” On that note, we publish “Off the Shelf” as a regular feature to bring you recommended reading from Army AL&T professionals.
LOGISTICS CLUSTERS: DELIVERING VALUE AND DRIVING GROWTH by Yossi Sheffi (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2014, 368 pages)
Why is Memphis home to hundreds of motor carrier terminals and distribution centers? Why does the tiny island nation of Singapore handle a fifth of the world’s maritime containers and half the world’s annual supply of crude oil? Te answer is that these are logistics clusters—geographically concentrated sets of logistics-related business activities. In this book, supply chain management expert Sheffi explains why particular locales, such as Memphis, Singapore, Chicago, Rotterdam, Los Angeles and scores of other locations, have succeeded in developing such clusters while others have not. Te book outlines how the characteristic “positive feedback loop” of such development works and what differentiates them from other industrial clusters. Logistics clusters add value by creating jobs in other industrial activities, and the author shows why distribution and value-added activities in logistics clusters are good for business—not just because of the services available, but also because the jobs they create cannot be outsourced. Tat is why numerous regional and central governments as well as scores of real estate developers are investing in the creation of logistics clusters.
SIMULATION: THE PRACTICE OF MODEL DEVELOPMENT AND USE (SECOND EDITION) by Stewart Robinson (New York, NY: Palgrave MacMillan, 2014, 336 pages)
Simulation models enable the user to better understand and explore improvements to an operations system such as in manufacturing, service, transport or supply. Tey are a powerful management tool, providing a means to improve an organization’s efficiency and effectiveness as well as its products. Advances in software mean that simulation is not just accessible but also necessary for business. But simulating a model isn’t just about software; it’s about what goes into the model, the uncertainties and variables programmed in to test it. Tis book describes the steps involved in a simulation study, drawing together theoretical and practical perspectives. Having introduced the concept of simulation, the book covers how simulation works, what kind of software to choose, designing conceptual and computer models, and experi- menting with them. It also covers verification and validation of the data generated. Two case study examples illustrate the principles described.
SERIOUS PLAY: HOW THE WORLD’S BEST COMPANIES SIMULATE TO INNOVATE by Michael Schrage (Cambridge, MA: Harvard Business Review Press, 1999, 272 pages)
Considered a landmark book written by a widely recognized expert on the relationship between technology and work, this volume argues that successful innovation demands more than a good strategic plan. It requires creative improvi- sation. Much of the “serious play” that leads to breakthrough innovations increasingly is linked to experiments with models, prototypes and simulations. As technology makes prototyping more cost-effective, serious play will soon be
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Army AL&T Magazine
July–September 2014
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