Abstract:
To develop the existing collaborative framework. The research collated and analyzed data from in-depth interview of 10 less- than-truckload carriers and 50 questionnaires. The resulting corroboration framework was then be presented to focus group meeting, who then rectified and summarized the proper collaborative framework. The results from the study indicated that the proper framework can be described in 4 dimensions. The first dimension is the Business Model. We have to provide specific standard qualifications for members such as product attributes, type of transportation, etc. A central company must be officially formed as a corporation and formally making an agreement. Members must have close relationships and common visions or same working policy. Moreover, there must not be overlapping route and services among members. The second dimension is Business Process. All business procedures ought to have clear standard administration and operation, including stipulated scope of service and responsibilities, which all procedures must be obviously recorded on tracking system. The third dimension is Financial Process, which involves all financial transactions such as income collection, profit distribution, credit duration. In order to ensure transparency and fairness, all financial procedures must be expressly recorded in tracking system as well. The fourth dimension is Operation Process, whose aim is to set standard service level and guidelines. Developed framework will be successful when members share the same vision and stand on a common ground, willing to concurrently grown up. Members concentrate on enlarging service areas or service levels. To endure collaboration, carriers should reduce the conflict of benefit which could help to increase the trust among members.