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This study aims to contribute to the field of logistics horizontal collaboration in two main ways. First it aims systematically to explore and classify the different forms of collaboration by conducting a typological analysis. This can provide a study framework for a better understanding of the distinguishing features among the alternative types of collaboration, and how the collaboration can be structured and operated. Hence it will contribute to knowledge in the design phase of horizontal collaboration for logistics and transport.
The explicit modelling of the collaborative process and the effect on the participating partners and the supply chain system has rarely been attempted.This study, therefore, will also aim to contribute to the development of knowledge concerning how to model the various forms of collaboration in action and to examine the effect of this collaboration on supply chain performance. This helps to improve the knowledge in the operations phase of horizontal collaboration for logistics and transport.
This study is also expected to demonstrate that simulation modelling, specifically agent-based simulation, is a useful tool to analyse and explain the behaviour patterns of a supply chain logistics system, by explicitly defining and modelling the individuals of the system. This is where the empirical approach cannot make the definitive measurement and predictions.