Logistics Master Plan
I.
Introduction
A.
Purpose
This master plan integrates various engineer logistics modernization
efforts and existing strategic plans into a comprehensive plan for
redesigning Coast Guard logistics.
B.
Logistics System
The Coast Guard defines logistics as:
A generic term which encompasses all those support activities
associated with developing, acquiring, testing, and sustaining the
mission effectiveness of operating assets throughout their service
lives. The overall objective is to provide the right persons,
things, and information, at the right time, at the right place and
at a reasonable cost.
Figure (1) shows the elements of a classic system: inputs, outputs,
process(es), feedback and environment. The inputs of the Coast Guard
logistics system are basic resources--money and people. The outputs
are numerous--operating assets, trained operators, maintenance,
replacement parts, etc. The processes are numerous and highly
interrelated. The environment includes all the forces acting on
the system, from physical (e.g., harsh operating conditions) to
socio-political (e.g., austere budget climates). Feedback is
critical to the efficient and effective performance of the system.
Figure (2) is a simplified schematic of the Coast Guard logistics
system which expands the process(es) element of Figure (1) to show
some of the key functions performed. Each of the small
boxes represents a set of processes in a functional area. These
are functional subsystems--with their own inputs, outputs, processes,
feedback and environment. For example, in the supply support
function, there are some processes that contribute directly to the
ultimate customers (i.e., process "A"), and there are some
processes that provide outputs to (and are considered inputs
for) the maintenance function (i.e., process "B").
Final - 2/15/93
1
Previous Page
