Marine administration systems in transportation and the performance of logistics companies in Tanzania

Abstract

The transport and logistics industries play a vital role in a country's economic development and stability, and are essential for supporting international trade. Transportation is closely linked to logistics, which forms a core component of the supply chain. Increasing expectations for high service quality and minimal tolerance for poor performance have created a highly competitive environment in marine operations, placing significant pressure on marine managers to ensure both reliability and cost-effectiveness. MerKab Logistics Company Limited has been facing difficulties in how its managers, who are stationed at the head office in Dar es Salaam, can effectively oversee marine operations when trucks are operating across international borders. This case study aimed to provide a solution to this issue through the implementation of a marine management system. The research was guided by two theoretical frameworks: The Diffusion of Technology and the Theory of Replacement. The study concentrated on the Dar es Salaam area, and a descriptive research design was deemed appropriate given the qualitative nature of the data. A purposive sampling method, which is a type of non-random sampling, was used. The targeted population of 106 employees from MerKab Logistics Company Limited was used. The sample size was 84 employees from MerKab Logistics Company Limited, calculated from the Yamane formula.  Information was gathered through interviews and document analysis, and the findings were interpreted using narrative analysis. The research identified several issues, including difficulties in integrating data into the system, excessive information overload, and concerns about system security. To address these problems, the study recommended the development of reliable digital tools, elimination of manual paperwork, automation of data entry and reporting processes, enhancement of communication systems, and upgrades to the company's maintenance operations.