1.1 Introduction
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Product logistics management system is an automated platform designed to manage, monitor, and control the flow of products from manufacturers or suppliers to end-users efficiently (Okafor & Ibrahim, 2021). It integrates various aspects of the distribution process such as inventory control, order management, sales tracking, and logistics into a single system that operates with minimal human intervention. According to Adebayo (2020), automation in product distribution not only improves accuracy but also ensures real-time data availability, which supports effective decision-making and customer satisfaction.
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In recent years, the rapid advancement of information and communication technology (ICT) has transformed the way businesses manage distribution and logistics. Manual methods of managing product distribution, which involve paperwork and physical supervision, have proven to be time-consuming, prone to human errors, and inefficient in handling large-scale operations (Eze & Okon, 2021). As competition intensifies in both local and global markets, businesses are increasingly adopting digital solutions to improve operational efficiency and maintain a competitive advantage. For organizations such as Siba Group of Companies, Ikot Ekpene, automating the distribution process is a strategic necessity rather than an option.
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As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Limitation of the study and Definition of technical terms.
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1.2 Background of Study
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Historically, Automated Product Logistics Management Systems are closely tied to the evolution of information technology and the modernization of logistics and supply chain operations. According to Okafor and Ibrahim (2021), the concept of distribution management dates back to the early 20th century, when companies began organizing the movement of goods through manual record-keeping, physical stock control, and human coordination. As industrialization advanced, businesses faced increased demand for efficiency and accuracy in product handling, which led to the gradual integration of mechanical and later electronic methods for managing distribution. Product distribution management is the backbone of modern business operations because it ensures that goods are delivered to the right place, in the right quantity, and at the right time. The effectiveness of this process determines how well an organization satisfies its customers and maintains competitiveness in the marketplace. However, traditional manual distribution systems are often plagued with inefficiencies, inaccuracies, and delays that hinder organizational performance.
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Adebayo (2020) asserted that in many developing economies, including Nigeria, most small and medium enterprises (SMEs) still rely heavily on manual record-keeping and distribution methods that are time-consuming and prone to human error. Consequently, businesses face challenges such as stockouts, overstocking, data loss, and delayed deliveries, which negatively impact profitability and customer satisfaction. Eze and Okon (2021) reported that the lack of automation in product distribution processes often results in poor coordination between production, storage, and delivery units, leading to inefficiencies across the supply chain.
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Chukwuemeka and Ibrahim (2022) affirmed that automation has become a transformative tool in modern logistics and supply chain management. The integration of automated systems enables organizations to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and reduce manual workload. Automation also improves data accuracy and decision-making, enabling managers to respond swiftly to market demands. Similarly, Nwankwo and Bello (2022) contended that digital transformation in product distribution not only improves operational efficiency but also strengthens customer relationships by ensuring prompt and reliable service delivery.
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Siba Group of Companies, Ikot Ekpene, is one of the growing business enterprises engaged in the distribution of goods to various clients across Nigeria. The company’s operations, however, are still largely manual, involving handwritten invoices, physical tracking of goods, and uncoordinated communication between departments. According to Udo and Akpan (2023), such manual systems are highly susceptible to errors and inconsistencies, especially as the volume of transactions increases. This has made it difficult for management to monitor stock levels accurately, predict market needs, and meet customers’ expectations efficiently.
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Okon and Ekanem (2023) stated that adopting Automated Product Logistics Management Systems helps organizations overcome the limitations of manual methods by providing centralized data storage, automated reporting, and seamless coordination between sales, inventory, and logistics departments. Through automation, businesses can minimize human errors, ensure data security, and enhance transparency in their operations. For Siba Group of Companies, implementing such a system would promote faster order processing, improve customer satisfaction, and strengthen overall organizational performance.
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The challenges encountered that led to the execution of the research work is that, manual product distribution management limits the company’s ability to respond effectively to dynamic market demands. In an era where automation and digital systems dominate business operations, continuing with outdated manual processes results in inefficiencies that increase operational costs and reduce competitiveness (Adebayo, 2020). This study is set against the backdrop of the need to develop and implement an Automated Product Logistics Management System for Siba Group of Companies, Ikot Ekpene.
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1.3 Statement of Problem
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Based on the investigation conducted, the implemented system encounters a number of challenges, with some of the most significant issues outlined below.
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\r\n- The manual process of product record-keeping often leads to data loss, duplication, and inaccuracies, making it difficult to maintain up-to-date inventory information.
\r\n- There is poor coordination between sales, warehouse, and logistics departments, resulting in communication breakdowns and delivery delays.
\r\n- The company experiences inefficient order tracking, which makes it hard to monitor the movement of goods in real-time.
\r\n- Decision-making is delayed due to the absence of an automated reporting system that provides timely and accurate data.
\r\n- The manual system leads to increased human error in data entry, pricing, and documentation, causing financial and operational inconsistencies.
\r\n- There is limited transparency and accountability in product distribution activities, making it difficult to track employee performance and customer satisfaction levels.
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1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study
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The aim of this study is to design and implement an automated product logistics management system. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows to develop an application software that will:
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\r\n- Create an efficient automated system for managing product ordering, stock control, and distribution.
\r\n- Develop a centralized database for storing and retrieving product and customer information in real-time.
\r\n- Design an easy-to-use interface that will allow employees to manage distribution activities effectively.
\r\n- Implement a functional system that will ensure proper coordination between sales, warehouse, and logistics departments.
\r\n- Evaluate the effectiveness of the automated system in enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
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1.5 Significance of Study
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The implementation of the proposed system and the accompanying research documentation is highly significant in the following ways.
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\r\n- The system will help management monitor business performance more effectively through real-time data and automated reporting.
\r\n- It will reduce manual workload, minimize errors, and create a more efficient working environment.
\r\n- The system will ensure timely product delivery and improve customer satisfaction through transparent service.
\r\n- It will provide a reference material for studies on automation and business process improvement in Nigeria.
\r\n- This research will be beneficial to ICT Practitioners by demonstrating how technology will be applied to solve real-life organizational problems, promoting innovation in distribution management.
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1.6 Scope of Study
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The scope of the research is focused on Siba Group of Companies, located in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The system will specifically cover activities related to product ordering, stock management, and delivery tracking within the company.
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It will also include features for data storage, automated reporting, and interdepartmental coordination. The study will not extend to external distributors or third-party logistics firms outside the company’s operational framework.
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1.7 Limitations of the Study
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During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
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\r\n- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
\r\n- Establishment Policies: Establishment policies posed a serious limitation as most staffs are not ready to release information needed for this research work. There were lots of information needed from the staffs of this institution to enhance the study which took them time to release or they did not release at all for security purposes, hence the scope was reduced.
\r\n- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet).
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1.8 Definition of Terms
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Automation:
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Automation refers to the use of technology and computer systems to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, thereby increasing efficiency and accuracy (Adebayo, 2020).
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Distribution Management:
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This is the process of overseeing the movement of goods from a manufacturer or supplier to end-users in an organized and efficient manner (Eze & Okon, 2021).
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