The external interfaces mainly deal with logistic
decisions at a strategic level. Four external
factors can be distinguished: (1) market: decisions
concerning product/market combinations; (2) infrastructure:
decisions concerning the control of
transport facilities on the physical infrastructure;
(3) technology, i.e. technological developments
and innovation; (4) management, i.e. strategic
business management, competitive advantage.
The market is a pull factor, whereas technology
and management are push factors. Models and
tools like portfolio technology, risk analysis,
SWOT analysis and break-even analyses are