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Geography in logistics
Speaking of logistics, geography is not a science that quickly comes to mind. And yet, geography is the basis of logistics. Let’s go back to the definition of logistics that I gave in the article on logistics: logistics consists of controlling the flow of material, people and information between origin and destination as soon as possible, with the best possible quality of service, while optimizing stock and flows.
How to transport people or goods between origin and destination, if you do not know the geography or in good French, the terrain.
What is geography?
This is how Wikipedia defines geography: from the Latin geographic, literally translated as “drawing of the Earth” is a science centered on the present, having as its object the description of the Earth and in particular the study of the physical, biological, and human phenomena that occur on the terrestrial globe. Geography is divided into three main branches: mathematical geography, physical geography, and human geography.
- Mathematical geography focuses on the surface of the Earth, the study of its mathematical representation and its relationship to the Moon and the Sun.
- Physical geography is a discipline that aims to “describe, compare and explain landscapes”
- Human geography is the spatial study of human activities on the surface of the globe, thus the study of the ecumene, that is, the regions inhabited by man.
Impact on logistics
It is human geography, with cities, as well as mathematical geography, with topography and cartography, that interests us in the logistical framework. To plan the movement of equipment or people, it is essential to know the geography. For example, before 1912, ships departing from Europe wishing to go to Asia or the West Coast of America had to pass through the Horne cape known for its dangers.
With the opening of the Panama Canal, it is no longer necessary to face the dangers of Cape Horne. However, not all ships can use it. American aircraft carriers are too large as are some transport and cruise ships such as the Symphony of the Seas.
Let’s move on to airplanes, so the main link with geography is airports. The location of an airport is a matter of geography and is important when planning a flight between two airports, if only to determine the distance. There is also another point that can affect planes and that is the topography especially the mountains.
While modern wide-body aircraft have no difficulty flying over mountains, this has not always been the case and smaller aircraft still face the challenges of crossing them.
Sources
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About 48e Nord International
48e Nord International is a dynamic and present team for companies wishing to lead their activities towards sustainable business development and thus achieve their objectives. Its services are aimed at companies established in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue territory and companies in the mining sector in Quebec. For any questions, contact us.
Source :
Olivier Bilodeau Lavoie
Logistics and Research Support Advisor
48e Nord International
418-732-6728
