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Any attempt to define Logistics opens a wide range of interpretations. With a debate on definitional orientation probably not to be concluded in real time, Certification of Professional Logisticians will remain a point of debate in its own right. Any attempt towards the development of education programs in Logistics, certification of Professional Logistics requires some agreement on what exactly underlies this profession. A clear requirement exists to define a Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) in Logistics. Such Common Body of Knowledge will describe what knowledge a Logistics Professional has, or needs to have, to be certified as Professional Logistician.

Logistics and the concept of Integration i.e. the Supply Chain have been defined by many authors over many years. It is believed these definitions are varied through the very reality of Logistics not being defined philosophically. The philosophical concept is basically one of availibility, both physical and operational availibility. Once this is viewed conceptually, it becomes easier to define Logistics.

Apart from the variations in definition, a debate could also be undertaken regarding Logistics as a discipline or as a profession.

The purpose here attempt an understanding of what a Body of Logistics Knowledge may constitute and a description of what Logistics is about. Within the context of what Logistics is all about, a body of knowledge should cover all of the Logistics areas with some indication of the associated sub areas. In this context, a Common Body of Knowledge for the Logistics Profession can form the base for setting standards for certification of Logistics Professionals, and the development of education and training offerings. Given the wide range of disciplines in the professional arena of Logistics, a defined and agreed Body of Knowledge will allow specialisation, which by default has become common in this profession. This section provides a discussion of Logistcs, its conceptual meanining from which an attempt has been made to describe a Body of Knowledge that is believed to underpin the profession.

It is at no time implied that the CBLK set out here is complete. Recognition is given to several attempts in this regard and this submission is a contribution to the debate, rather than a conclusive alternative to existing efforts toward defining a CBLK. The contents of these pages is subject to continuous update as the Institute receive further inputs and comments in this regard.

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Last updated Monday June 18th, 2007 by Pieter Nagel