To create more insight into the level of logistics professionals, vLm launches classification platform LCSM. The classification structure assesses professionals in logistics and supply chain on their level of education, work experience, competences and the extent to which they keep their knowledge up to date.
The classification system is designed to ensure
that employers can see at a glance the type and level of
logistics professional they are dealing with.VLm director
Peter
van der Sterre, responsible for
LSCM, explains to LogistiekProfs that many companies in the logistics sector reported struggling to find the right people. “It is difficult to find staff who are trained to the right
level as staff with the right motivation are hard to find.
We knew we had to do something about that.”
As a
professional association, VLm is one of the organisations involved in logistics. “We could
have opted for a unique VLm system, but there are a multitude of organisations
that provide training, certification and activities in this field. That is why
we have set up the classification system in such a way that everyone can contribute to it
and benefit from it. This makes sense, as logistics and supply chain management
are all about collaboration.”
The
classification system, consideration is given to the professional’s education, work experience and skills
of the professional. “It is important that the focus is not solely on
level of education. By including work experience and skills,
people with a higher professional education (HBO) degree in Logistics and those with a different certificate or
qualification can be compared more effectively.”
Advanced training to stay on level
In addition,
logistics professionals are assessed on how well they keep their knowledge up to date. Van der Sterre
believes that logistics staff often lack the incentive to
undertake further training. “Logistics professionals tend to be somewhat introverted by nature and purely
the logistics process. They’ve got their hands full with that alone.
Given the rapid developments in logistics, this could cause problems in the long run
. If we want to perform at the highest level and provide companies with access
to well-trained staff, we must encourage logistics professionals to acquire relevant
knowledge.” By undertaking further training, the professional maintains a
level within the classification system. They must achieve 75 points over five years,
with each point representing one hour of relevant knowledge. “This can range from
attending a workshop on ICT & Logistics to writing
substantive article.” Van der Sterre expects that the continuing professional development system will also
ensure that staff remain more committed to the field. “When
you invest in your career every year, you’re less likely to
change careers.”
VLm is launching the
classification system on 2 November, during the ICT & Logistics trade fair.
From that point onwards, logistics professionals will be able to register with LSCM to see
what their starting point is, based on their work experience and qualifications.
Editorial LogistiekProfs
