Using the Theory of Social and Complex Networks for Applying Business Logistics Solutions

Modern society increasingly demand speed and quality of the logistics industry in its operations, forcing them to seek innovative alternatives that make them competitive. To Fawcett\& Clinton (1996) modern companies are at a time of developing new production philosophies, growing global competition, supply chain development and a great emphasis on the use of information technology. In this sense, the use of Social and complex networks theory has become one of the main methods used by logistics managers in the search for solutions that result efficiency and competitiveness in its processes. Importantly, the analysis of social networks and Complex is defined as the mapping and investigation of the relationship between a particular group of actors (Scott, 2000). Relations, specifically in logistics, can be constructed and applied in the most important modal, as a transport of goods from one city to another (road transport), from port to port (water modal) and between one airport to another (modal air transportation). Such relationships, network theory, are built from the identification of vertices (focal points such as ports) and edges (transport of goods) that when applied in specific softwares such as Pajek or UCINET result in a series of strategic indicators that provide the logistics manager taken more assertive and competitive decisions. Using the theory of Social Networks and Complex in logistics organizations allow administrators to better manage their supplier relationships, determine assertive decisions on physical distribution and also get cost savings throughout the supply chain (Supply Chain). In conclusion, Social Networks and Complex focus in relations between actors as the main unit of analysis, and such relationships may result in management information capable of providing organizations, efficiency and effectiveness in their logistics processes.