The definitions of mass libraries can strike a note that they are very similar to the public libraries of the democratic countries, therefore, it is important to analyze the rise of this expression its strengths and weaknesses. Mass libraries of Soviet Union take a special part in the history of librarianship, so its necessitate exceptional attention. The subject of research is soviet librarianship. The point is analyze attitude and concepts of soviet librarianship and without bias light ideological and objective base of practice. Overriding problems: make out main concepts of soviet librarianship and its lineament; profile libraries history development in Soviet Union, by marking Lithuania context; discuss with mass library theoretical and historical development; survey V.I. Lenin's and N.K. Krupskaja's concepts by content analysis Paper consist of three section. First section familiarize with public and mass libraries basics policy guidelines, dispute mass library place in soviet librarians typological concepts and sum up the influence of propaganda and censorship in library work. Second section consists of three parts. In first briefly elucidate the development of library and librarianship in Soviet Union. In second part present the state of library and librarianship in Lithuania in Soviet era. In last part introduce pioneer of soviet librarianship V.I. Lenin's and N.K Krupskaja's concepts. Third section designed for investigative part of paper. First present methodology of content analysis and next introduce results and interpretation of context analysis. For investigating part used literary and context analysis. Literary analysis used on writing theoretical part. For investigative part used content analysis.
The definitions of mass libraries can strike a note that they are very similar to the public libraries of the democratic countries, therefore, it is important to analyze the rise of this expression its strengths and weaknesses. Mass libraries of Soviet Union take a special part in the history of librarianship, so its necessitate exceptional attention. The subject of research is soviet librarianship. The point is analyze attitude and concepts of soviet librarianship and without bias light ideological and objective base of practice. Overriding problems: make out main concepts of soviet librarianship and its lineament; profile libraries history development in Soviet Union, by marking Lithuania context; discuss with mass library theoretical and historical development; survey V.I. Lenin's and N.K. Krupskaja's concepts by content analysis Paper consist of three section. First section familiarize with public and mass libraries basics policy guidelines, dispute mass library place in soviet librarians typological concepts and sum up the influence of propaganda and censorship in library work. Second section consists of three parts. In first briefly elucidate the development of library and librarianship in Soviet Union. In second part present the state of library and librarianship in Lithuania in Soviet era. In last part introduce pioneer of soviet librarianship V.I. Lenin's and N.K Krupskaja's concepts. Third section designed for investigative part of paper. First present methodology of content analysis and next introduce results and interpretation of context analysis. For investigating part used literary and context analysis. Literary analysis used on writing theoretical part. For investigative part used content analysis.
Fast economic growth is closely interrelated with renovation of industrial technologies, implementation of novelties and a rapid development of business innovation. Based on the European Union (EU) experience, identifying the key obstacles and opportunities for business development and growth becomes increasingly important for Lithuania. Therefore, before delving into daily business practices, the theoretical principles of innovation development need to be thoroughly discussed. The article examines an interrelation between innovation and economic competitiveness, the methodology of business innovation concept, the importance of development acceleration and financial support as well as the strategic objectives. The article offers a comparative analysis of innovation funding in Lithuania and other EU countries. Innovation survey is based on official reports of Lithuanian Department of Statistics, European Commission, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and other establishments. It is supported by research findings and reviews of different authors, Lithuanian strategies and legal acts. Methods of statistical data comparative analysis and content analysis of scientific literature and publications were also applied in the survey.
Fast economic growth is closely interrelated with renovation of industrial technologies, implementation of novelties and a rapid development of business innovation. Based on the European Union (EU) experience, identifying the key obstacles and opportunities for business development and growth becomes increasingly important for Lithuania. Therefore, before delving into daily business practices, the theoretical principles of innovation development need to be thoroughly discussed. The article examines an interrelation between innovation and economic competitiveness, the methodology of business innovation concept, the importance of development acceleration and financial support as well as the strategic objectives. The article offers a comparative analysis of innovation funding in Lithuania and other EU countries. Innovation survey is based on official reports of Lithuanian Department of Statistics, European Commission, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and other establishments. It is supported by research findings and reviews of different authors, Lithuanian strategies and legal acts. Methods of statistical data comparative analysis and content analysis of scientific literature and publications were also applied in the survey.
Fast economic growth is closely interrelated with renovation of industrial technologies, implementation of novelties and a rapid development of business innovation. Based on the European Union (EU) experience, identifying the key obstacles and opportunities for business development and growth becomes increasingly important for Lithuania. Therefore, before delving into daily business practices, the theoretical principles of innovation development need to be thoroughly discussed. The article examines an interrelation between innovation and economic competitiveness, the methodology of business innovation concept, the importance of development acceleration and financial support as well as the strategic objectives. The article offers a comparative analysis of innovation funding in Lithuania and other EU countries. Innovation survey is based on official reports of Lithuanian Department of Statistics, European Commission, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and other establishments. It is supported by research findings and reviews of different authors, Lithuanian strategies and legal acts. Methods of statistical data comparative analysis and content analysis of scientific literature and publications were also applied in the survey.
Fast economic growth is closely interrelated with renovation of industrial technologies, implementation of novelties and a rapid development of business innovation. Based on the European Union (EU) experience, identifying the key obstacles and opportunities for business development and growth becomes increasingly important for Lithuania. Therefore, before delving into daily business practices, the theoretical principles of innovation development need to be thoroughly discussed. The article examines an interrelation between innovation and economic competitiveness, the methodology of business innovation concept, the importance of development acceleration and financial support as well as the strategic objectives. The article offers a comparative analysis of innovation funding in Lithuania and other EU countries. Innovation survey is based on official reports of Lithuanian Department of Statistics, European Commission, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and other establishments. It is supported by research findings and reviews of different authors, Lithuanian strategies and legal acts. Methods of statistical data comparative analysis and content analysis of scientific literature and publications were also applied in the survey.
The article discuses the problem that was recently raised in the Lithuanian historical literature & public discourse by G. Beresnevieius, A. Bumblauskas, S. C. Rowell: was the medieval Lithuanian state (Grand Duchy of Lithuania; GDL) an empire? Important reason for the emergence of this problem was the partial rehabilitation of the very concept of "empire" due to the dissolution of the the USSR (reputed as "last empire") & the search for common legacies by the historians of the countries involved in the construction of the European Union as a transnational political community. There were important reasons for the traditional historiography to abstain from the use of the concepts of "empire" & "imperialism" in the work on GDL. For Non-Marxist Russian historians, GDL was simply another Russian state, so there could not be Russian imperialism against Russians. For Marxist historians, imperialism was a phase in the "capitalist formation," immediately preceding the socialist revolution & bound to the specific period of world history, so the research on precapitalist empires & imperialism was suspect of anachronism. For the opposite reason, deriving from the hermeneutic methodology, the talk about medieval Lithuanian empire & imperialism was an anachronism for Non-Marxist Polish & German historians too, because they considered as Empires only polities that claimed to be successors to Roman Empire: the Holy Roman Empire of German Nation, Byzantine Empire, Moscow Empire. Lithuanian political elite never raised such claims, although theory of the Lithuanian descent from Romans (Legend of Palemon) could be used for this goal. Starting from path-breaking work by S. N. Eisenstadt "The Political Systems of Empires" (1963), comparative politics, history, sociology, anthropology & theory of international relations witnessed the emergence of the field of interdisciplinary studies that can be described as comparative studies of empires & imperialism. Second section of the paper provides the survey of the theoretical work in this field in search of the ideas useful for the analysis of the peculiarities of the medieval Lithuanian state. This survey includes into its scope the work of S. N. Eisenstadt, I. Wallerstein, A. Motyl, B. Buzan, R. Little, A. Watson, M. Beissinger, Ch.Tilly & M. Doyle, whose book "Empires" is considered as the most important contribution to the theorizing of empires & imperialism up to this date. Adapted from the source document.
This graduation work emphasis competitiveness issues and perspectives of Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises. Research object - Lithuanian furniture industry companies competitiveness. Research aim is to analyze Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises competitiveness, discover main forces at which are based competitive factors, find possibilities to sustain and develop new competitive factors and possibilities. Work is divided in three main parts. In the first part is given analysis of development theoretical conception of competitiveness from the Smith theories of absolute competitive advantages of countries till the later theories. Analyzed macroeconomics factors influence for industry competitiveness. Section ends with M.Porter model of five competitive forces and his further development. In the second part is analyzed Lithuanian furniture industry current situation and statistics, it's main development trends, studied strengths and weaknesses (SWOT analysis). Also is given analysis of European Union and world furniture situation. In the third part is presented methodology and results of performed survey, the main obstacles influencing development and sustaining of competitive forces, which are best known by furniture industry enterprises representatives. Main result of this research is established main factors on which Lithuanian furniture industry competitiveness is based. As for today main competitive factor is low production costs, however this factor is changing because of rising wages, shortage of working people, rising prices of local raw materials and energetic resources. Only fraction of enterprises are producing original design or other way differentiated furniture. As research shows, main possibilities for sustaining present competitive advantages is coherent with ability to increase work efficiency, acquiring of new, high productivity technologies and equipment. Rising furniture industry in China and Russia forces to perform such changes as fast as possible. Because Lithuanian furniture industry is oriented to export it is very important to reduce such competitive force as buyers influence by finding new markets in developed countries and reducing sales concentration.
This graduation work emphasis competitiveness issues and perspectives of Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises. Research object - Lithuanian furniture industry companies competitiveness. Research aim is to analyze Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises competitiveness, discover main forces at which are based competitive factors, find possibilities to sustain and develop new competitive factors and possibilities. Work is divided in three main parts. In the first part is given analysis of development theoretical conception of competitiveness from the Smith theories of absolute competitive advantages of countries till the later theories. Analyzed macroeconomics factors influence for industry competitiveness. Section ends with M.Porter model of five competitive forces and his further development. In the second part is analyzed Lithuanian furniture industry current situation and statistics, it's main development trends, studied strengths and weaknesses (SWOT analysis). Also is given analysis of European Union and world furniture situation. In the third part is presented methodology and results of performed survey, the main obstacles influencing development and sustaining of competitive forces, which are best known by furniture industry enterprises representatives. Main result of this research is established main factors on which Lithuanian furniture industry competitiveness is based. As for today main competitive factor is low production costs, however this factor is changing because of rising wages, shortage of working people, rising prices of local raw materials and energetic resources. Only fraction of enterprises are producing original design or other way differentiated furniture. As research shows, main possibilities for sustaining present competitive advantages is coherent with ability to increase work efficiency, acquiring of new, high productivity technologies and equipment. Rising furniture industry in China and Russia forces to perform such changes as fast as possible. Because Lithuanian furniture industry is oriented to export it is very important to reduce such competitive force as buyers influence by finding new markets in developed countries and reducing sales concentration.
This graduation work emphasis competitiveness issues and perspectives of Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises. Research object - Lithuanian furniture industry companies competitiveness. Research aim is to analyze Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises competitiveness, discover main forces at which are based competitive factors, find possibilities to sustain and develop new competitive factors and possibilities. Work is divided in three main parts. In the first part is given analysis of development theoretical conception of competitiveness from the Smith theories of absolute competitive advantages of countries till the later theories. Analyzed macroeconomics factors influence for industry competitiveness. Section ends with M.Porter model of five competitive forces and his further development. In the second part is analyzed Lithuanian furniture industry current situation and statistics, it's main development trends, studied strengths and weaknesses (SWOT analysis). Also is given analysis of European Union and world furniture situation. In the third part is presented methodology and results of performed survey, the main obstacles influencing development and sustaining of competitive forces, which are best known by furniture industry enterprises representatives. Main result of this research is established main factors on which Lithuanian furniture industry competitiveness is based. As for today main competitive factor is low production costs, however this factor is changing because of rising wages, shortage of working people, rising prices of local raw materials and energetic resources. Only fraction of enterprises are producing original design or other way differentiated furniture. As research shows, main possibilities for sustaining present competitive advantages is coherent with ability to increase work efficiency, acquiring of new, high productivity technologies and equipment. Rising furniture industry in China and Russia forces to perform such changes as fast as possible. Because Lithuanian furniture industry is oriented to export it is very important to reduce such competitive force as buyers influence by finding new markets in developed countries and reducing sales concentration.
This graduation work emphasis competitiveness issues and perspectives of Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises. Research object - Lithuanian furniture industry companies competitiveness. Research aim is to analyze Lithuanian furniture industry enterprises competitiveness, discover main forces at which are based competitive factors, find possibilities to sustain and develop new competitive factors and possibilities. Work is divided in three main parts. In the first part is given analysis of development theoretical conception of competitiveness from the Smith theories of absolute competitive advantages of countries till the later theories. Analyzed macroeconomics factors influence for industry competitiveness. Section ends with M.Porter model of five competitive forces and his further development. In the second part is analyzed Lithuanian furniture industry current situation and statistics, it's main development trends, studied strengths and weaknesses (SWOT analysis). Also is given analysis of European Union and world furniture situation. In the third part is presented methodology and results of performed survey, the main obstacles influencing development and sustaining of competitive forces, which are best known by furniture industry enterprises representatives. Main result of this research is established main factors on which Lithuanian furniture industry competitiveness is based. As for today main competitive factor is low production costs, however this factor is changing because of rising wages, shortage of working people, rising prices of local raw materials and energetic resources. Only fraction of enterprises are producing original design or other way differentiated furniture. As research shows, main possibilities for sustaining present competitive advantages is coherent with ability to increase work efficiency, acquiring of new, high productivity technologies and equipment. Rising furniture industry in China and Russia forces to perform such changes as fast as possible. Because Lithuanian furniture industry is oriented to export it is very important to reduce such competitive force as buyers influence by finding new markets in developed countries and reducing sales concentration.
Relevance of the dissertation is determined by the object of research – the influence of logistical factors on transport flows distribution. The growth of world economics, business globalization, progress in technology skills extends the distances between geographical points of raw materials resources, manufacturers and consumers. Due to the membership in the European Union (EU) Lithuania has got new opportunities for international trade growth, and all the Eastern Baltic countries have become the buffer region for the EU trading with the countries of the Eastern Europe and Asia. A proper transport policy and infrastructure development would increase significantly the GNP in warehousing, transport and distribution sectors. Forecasting of potential transport flows according to logistical requirements of freight suppliers is most important for transport network optimization. Scientific problem. Contemporary transport engineering theory approaches the peculiarities of transport flows formation too narrowly, only as an analysis of internal factors determining freight flows. There is no analysis of external factors. Many researchers assume that transport flows are determined only by the existing transport network and its characteristics. Other researchers consider transport flows as a result of logistic elements only. The estimating of internal and external logistical factors provides a possibility to forecast the transport flows. Aim of the research is to create a model of logistical factors influence on transport flows distribution. Seeking to meet this aim, the author of the dissertation has solved the following tasks: 1. To make an analysis of the theory provided by Lithuanian and foreign researchers concerning the common interaction of logistics and transport, as well as to point out the advantages and disadvantages in the approaches and hypotheses of many authors, and to propose own conclusions. 2. To create a model of logistical factors and their indicators, which determine transport flows distribution in the transport network. 3. To make empirical research of indices of logistical factors in Lithuanian case. Scientific novelty of the research 1. The analysis of the research level of the scientific problem shows a very narrow theoretical view of determining transport flows. Many authors analyze internal factors only and do not estimate logistical needs of consignors and consignees. 2. The created new models determine transport flows and freight flows in transport network by internal and external specific logistical factors as well. 3. The results of empirical research of external factors confirm the created new models and provide a new interpretation and theoretical view of regularities of freight flows formation. Direct influence on basic transportation process characteristics and control is exercised by clients of transport companies. The basic attitudes for defending 1 The advantages and disadvantages of approaches of numerous researchers on logistic and transportation functions. 2 The models determining distribution of transport flows according to logistical factors. 3 The conclusions of empirical research of logistical factors' influence in Lithuanian case. The significance of the research. Theories proposed by many authors on transport and logistic functioning and interaction are analyzed, and a new point of theoretical view is given. The created models would be fit for forecasting of transport flows and planning of investments in transport infrastructure. The models would help the government, transport and logistics companies to make strategic decisions for development projects. Results of empirical research, which prove theoretical models are important for transport and logistic service providers and their customers for better common understanding and common activities. Methodology of the research is based on regression and correlative analysis, forecasting, as well as on market survey and mathematical modeling. Approbation of the work. Main theses of the dissertation were approbated in 3 scientific published works and 14 scientific conferences papers. Dissertation's structure. The work consists of introduction, three chapters, conclusions and a list of literature (123 scientific works). The amount of the work is: 108 pages, 61 figures and 20 tables. The work includes 6 appendixes. Conclusions The theoretical analysis of logistics influence on transport flows distribution concepts by many researchers, the mathematical modeling of transport flows determination factors and empirical research to give the following conclusions: 1. Many scientists explore logistics and transport by different concepts, however there are no special investigations of logistical impact on transport flows distribution in their works. The analysis of scientific works shows a dual aspect of transport flows distribution. The first theory maintains that technological engineering solutions determine transport flows; the second theory considers that they are determined by logistical factors such as: 1) added value; 2) minimization of logistics costs; 3) customer service. 2. The supporters of technological approach focus the attention on mathematical modeling of freight flows in transport network, nodes and links, as well as logistical chains. According to this point of view, physical characteristics of links and nodes only give possibility to solve the task of freight flows distribution. The scientific problem is that physical characteristics do not suffice for the right solution of this task. It is important to find and estimate external logistical factors. 3. It is important to estimate that transport flows formation is determined in long-term period according to the requirements of manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The trade centralization is one of the basic elements in formation of logistical channels and distribution centers, and transport flows of course. 4. The mathematical model of transport flows distribution is created here. The model gives peculiarities of freight flows distribution according to estimation of economical, juridical and physical parameters of nodes and links. If a logistical subsystem of the given sub-region does not constitute the entire goods traffic channel from the consignor to the consignee, but it is a constituent part of the entire logistical channel from the consignor to the consignee, then the flow traffic goods through that sub-region will be dependent not only on the characteristics of the logistical channel existing in the sub-region's logistical system, but it will also depend on other regions, the logistical systems of which are involved in the common logistical channel. The minimization of the characteristics of any element may cause the minimization of the characteristics of the entire logistical channel as well as the loss of its competitive abilities. 5. The model of shipment grouping according to peculiarities of transport flows and logistic requirements is created. The model enables the estimating of characteristics of freight origins and destination points and forecasting of grouped shipment routes. 6. The survey shows dual approach to transport flows distribution as well as theoretical analysis. Transport flows are distributed according to logistic strategy of transport service consumers and technological solutions, and implementations of providers as well. The survey demonstrates that transport companies are not only 'sellers' or 'providers' of transport services. They are logistical partners of transport service consumers. The strategic partnership of trading and transport companies determines in many cases the formation of transport flows in Lithuania. According forecast of 5 % yearly trade growth, freight volume by road and rail in Lithuania will increase to 133.6 million tons in year 2015. 7. The basic logistical factors determining the distribution of transport flows in Lithuania according to the survey are these: geography of consumers markets, geography of basic transport nodes, structures of logistical channels, perspective of urban development, shortest paths, political and anti-criminal security of transit, grouping of goods, national factor.
Relevance of the dissertation is determined by the object of research – the influence of logistical factors on transport flows distribution. The growth of world economics, business globalization, progress in technology skills extends the distances between geographical points of raw materials resources, manufacturers and consumers. Due to the membership in the European Union (EU) Lithuania has got new opportunities for international trade growth, and all the Eastern Baltic countries have become the buffer region for the EU trading with the countries of the Eastern Europe and Asia. A proper transport policy and infrastructure development would increase significantly the GNP in warehousing, transport and distribution sectors. Forecasting of potential transport flows according to logistical requirements of freight suppliers is most important for transport network optimization. Scientific problem. Contemporary transport engineering theory approaches the peculiarities of transport flows formation too narrowly, only as an analysis of internal factors determining freight flows. There is no analysis of external factors. Many researchers assume that transport flows are determined only by the existing transport network and its characteristics. Other researchers consider transport flows as a result of logistic elements only. The estimating of internal and external logistical factors provides a possibility to forecast the transport flows. Aim of the research is to create a model of logistical factors influence on transport flows distribution. Seeking to meet this aim, the author of the dissertation has solved the following tasks: 1. To make an analysis of the theory provided by Lithuanian and foreign researchers concerning the common interaction of logistics and transport, as well as to point out the advantages and disadvantages in the approaches and hypotheses of many authors, and to propose own conclusions. 2. To create a model of logistical factors and their indicators, which determine transport flows distribution in the transport network. 3. To make empirical research of indices of logistical factors in Lithuanian case. Scientific novelty of the research 1. The analysis of the research level of the scientific problem shows a very narrow theoretical view of determining transport flows. Many authors analyze internal factors only and do not estimate logistical needs of consignors and consignees. 2. The created new models determine transport flows and freight flows in transport network by internal and external specific logistical factors as well. 3. The results of empirical research of external factors confirm the created new models and provide a new interpretation and theoretical view of regularities of freight flows formation. Direct influence on basic transportation process characteristics and control is exercised by clients of transport companies. The basic attitudes for defending 1 The advantages and disadvantages of approaches of numerous researchers on logistic and transportation functions. 2 The models determining distribution of transport flows according to logistical factors. 3 The conclusions of empirical research of logistical factors' influence in Lithuanian case. The significance of the research. Theories proposed by many authors on transport and logistic functioning and interaction are analyzed, and a new point of theoretical view is given. The created models would be fit for forecasting of transport flows and planning of investments in transport infrastructure. The models would help the government, transport and logistics companies to make strategic decisions for development projects. Results of empirical research, which prove theoretical models are important for transport and logistic service providers and their customers for better common understanding and common activities. Methodology of the research is based on regression and correlative analysis, forecasting, as well as on market survey and mathematical modeling. Approbation of the work. Main theses of the dissertation were approbated in 3 scientific published works and 14 scientific conferences papers. Dissertation's structure. The work consists of introduction, three chapters, conclusions and a list of literature (123 scientific works). The amount of the work is: 108 pages, 61 figures and 20 tables. The work includes 6 appendixes. Conclusions The theoretical analysis of logistics influence on transport flows distribution concepts by many researchers, the mathematical modeling of transport flows determination factors and empirical research to give the following conclusions: 1. Many scientists explore logistics and transport by different concepts, however there are no special investigations of logistical impact on transport flows distribution in their works. The analysis of scientific works shows a dual aspect of transport flows distribution. The first theory maintains that technological engineering solutions determine transport flows; the second theory considers that they are determined by logistical factors such as: 1) added value; 2) minimization of logistics costs; 3) customer service. 2. The supporters of technological approach focus the attention on mathematical modeling of freight flows in transport network, nodes and links, as well as logistical chains. According to this point of view, physical characteristics of links and nodes only give possibility to solve the task of freight flows distribution. The scientific problem is that physical characteristics do not suffice for the right solution of this task. It is important to find and estimate external logistical factors. 3. It is important to estimate that transport flows formation is determined in long-term period according to the requirements of manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The trade centralization is one of the basic elements in formation of logistical channels and distribution centers, and transport flows of course. 4. The mathematical model of transport flows distribution is created here. The model gives peculiarities of freight flows distribution according to estimation of economical, juridical and physical parameters of nodes and links. If a logistical subsystem of the given sub-region does not constitute the entire goods traffic channel from the consignor to the consignee, but it is a constituent part of the entire logistical channel from the consignor to the consignee, then the flow traffic goods through that sub-region will be dependent not only on the characteristics of the logistical channel existing in the sub-region's logistical system, but it will also depend on other regions, the logistical systems of which are involved in the common logistical channel. The minimization of the characteristics of any element may cause the minimization of the characteristics of the entire logistical channel as well as the loss of its competitive abilities. 5. The model of shipment grouping according to peculiarities of transport flows and logistic requirements is created. The model enables the estimating of characteristics of freight origins and destination points and forecasting of grouped shipment routes. 6. The survey shows dual approach to transport flows distribution as well as theoretical analysis. Transport flows are distributed according to logistic strategy of transport service consumers and technological solutions, and implementations of providers as well. The survey demonstrates that transport companies are not only 'sellers' or 'providers' of transport services. They are logistical partners of transport service consumers. The strategic partnership of trading and transport companies determines in many cases the formation of transport flows in Lithuania. According forecast of 5 % yearly trade growth, freight volume by road and rail in Lithuania will increase to 133.6 million tons in year 2015. 7. The basic logistical factors determining the distribution of transport flows in Lithuania according to the survey are these: geography of consumers markets, geography of basic transport nodes, structures of logistical channels, perspective of urban development, shortest paths, political and anti-criminal security of transit, grouping of goods, national factor.
Relevance of the dissertation is determined by the object of research – the influence of logistical factors on transport flows distribution. The growth of world economics, business globalization, progress in technology skills extends the distances between geographical points of raw materials resources, manufacturers and consumers. Due to the membership in the European Union (EU) Lithuania has got new opportunities for international trade growth, and all the Eastern Baltic countries have become the buffer region for the EU trading with the countries of the Eastern Europe and Asia. A proper transport policy and infrastructure development would increase significantly the GNP in warehousing, transport and distribution sectors. Forecasting of potential transport flows according to logistical requirements of freight suppliers is most important for transport network optimization. Scientific problem. Contemporary transport engineering theory approaches the peculiarities of transport flows formation too narrowly, only as an analysis of internal factors determining freight flows. There is no analysis of external factors. Many researchers assume that transport flows are determined only by the existing transport network and its characteristics. Other researchers consider transport flows as a result of logistic elements only. The estimating of internal and external logistical factors provides a possibility to forecast the transport flows. Aim of the research is to create a model of logistical factors influence on transport flows distribution. Seeking to meet this aim, the author of the dissertation has solved the following tasks: 1. To make an analysis of the theory provided by Lithuanian and foreign researchers concerning the common interaction of logistics and transport, as well as to point out the advantages and disadvantages in the approaches and hypotheses of many authors, and to propose own conclusions. 2. To create a model of logistical factors and their indicators, which determine transport flows distribution in the transport network. 3. To make empirical research of indices of logistical factors in Lithuanian case. Scientific novelty of the research 1. The analysis of the research level of the scientific problem shows a very narrow theoretical view of determining transport flows. Many authors analyze internal factors only and do not estimate logistical needs of consignors and consignees. 2. The created new models determine transport flows and freight flows in transport network by internal and external specific logistical factors as well. 3. The results of empirical research of external factors confirm the created new models and provide a new interpretation and theoretical view of regularities of freight flows formation. Direct influence on basic transportation process characteristics and control is exercised by clients of transport companies. The basic attitudes for defending 1 The advantages and disadvantages of approaches of numerous researchers on logistic and transportation functions. 2 The models determining distribution of transport flows according to logistical factors. 3 The conclusions of empirical research of logistical factors' influence in Lithuanian case. The significance of the research. Theories proposed by many authors on transport and logistic functioning and interaction are analyzed, and a new point of theoretical view is given. The created models would be fit for forecasting of transport flows and planning of investments in transport infrastructure. The models would help the government, transport and logistics companies to make strategic decisions for development projects. Results of empirical research, which prove theoretical models are important for transport and logistic service providers and their customers for better common understanding and common activities. Methodology of the research is based on regression and correlative analysis, forecasting, as well as on market survey and mathematical modeling. Approbation of the work. Main theses of the dissertation were approbated in 3 scientific published works and 14 scientific conferences papers. Dissertation's structure. The work consists of introduction, three chapters, conclusions and a list of literature (123 scientific works). The amount of the work is: 108 pages, 61 figures and 20 tables. The work includes 6 appendixes. Conclusions The theoretical analysis of logistics influence on transport flows distribution concepts by many researchers, the mathematical modeling of transport flows determination factors and empirical research to give the following conclusions: 1. Many scientists explore logistics and transport by different concepts, however there are no special investigations of logistical impact on transport flows distribution in their works. The analysis of scientific works shows a dual aspect of transport flows distribution. The first theory maintains that technological engineering solutions determine transport flows; the second theory considers that they are determined by logistical factors such as: 1) added value; 2) minimization of logistics costs; 3) customer service. 2. The supporters of technological approach focus the attention on mathematical modeling of freight flows in transport network, nodes and links, as well as logistical chains. According to this point of view, physical characteristics of links and nodes only give possibility to solve the task of freight flows distribution. The scientific problem is that physical characteristics do not suffice for the right solution of this task. It is important to find and estimate external logistical factors. 3. It is important to estimate that transport flows formation is determined in long-term period according to the requirements of manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The trade centralization is one of the basic elements in formation of logistical channels and distribution centers, and transport flows of course. 4. The mathematical model of transport flows distribution is created here. The model gives peculiarities of freight flows distribution according to estimation of economical, juridical and physical parameters of nodes and links. If a logistical subsystem of the given sub-region does not constitute the entire goods traffic channel from the consignor to the consignee, but it is a constituent part of the entire logistical channel from the consignor to the consignee, then the flow traffic goods through that sub-region will be dependent not only on the characteristics of the logistical channel existing in the sub-region's logistical system, but it will also depend on other regions, the logistical systems of which are involved in the common logistical channel. The minimization of the characteristics of any element may cause the minimization of the characteristics of the entire logistical channel as well as the loss of its competitive abilities. 5. The model of shipment grouping according to peculiarities of transport flows and logistic requirements is created. The model enables the estimating of characteristics of freight origins and destination points and forecasting of grouped shipment routes. 6. The survey shows dual approach to transport flows distribution as well as theoretical analysis. Transport flows are distributed according to logistic strategy of transport service consumers and technological solutions, and implementations of providers as well. The survey demonstrates that transport companies are not only 'sellers' or 'providers' of transport services. They are logistical partners of transport service consumers. The strategic partnership of trading and transport companies determines in many cases the formation of transport flows in Lithuania. According forecast of 5 % yearly trade growth, freight volume by road and rail in Lithuania will increase to 133.6 million tons in year 2015. 7. The basic logistical factors determining the distribution of transport flows in Lithuania according to the survey are these: geography of consumers markets, geography of basic transport nodes, structures of logistical channels, perspective of urban development, shortest paths, political and anti-criminal security of transit, grouping of goods, national factor.
Relevance of the dissertation is determined by the object of research – the influence of logistical factors on transport flows distribution. The growth of world economics, business globalization, progress in technology skills extends the distances between geographical points of raw materials resources, manufacturers and consumers. Due to the membership in the European Union (EU) Lithuania has got new opportunities for international trade growth, and all the Eastern Baltic countries have become the buffer region for the EU trading with the countries of the Eastern Europe and Asia. A proper transport policy and infrastructure development would increase significantly the GNP in warehousing, transport and distribution sectors. Forecasting of potential transport flows according to logistical requirements of freight suppliers is most important for transport network optimization. Scientific problem. Contemporary transport engineering theory approaches the peculiarities of transport flows formation too narrowly, only as an analysis of internal factors determining freight flows. There is no analysis of external factors. Many researchers assume that transport flows are determined only by the existing transport network and its characteristics. Other researchers consider transport flows as a result of logistic elements only. The estimating of internal and external logistical factors provides a possibility to forecast the transport flows. Aim of the research is to create a model of logistical factors influence on transport flows distribution. Seeking to meet this aim, the author of the dissertation has solved the following tasks: 1. To make an analysis of the theory provided by Lithuanian and foreign researchers concerning the common interaction of logistics and transport, as well as to point out the advantages and disadvantages in the approaches and hypotheses of many authors, and to propose own conclusions. 2. To create a model of logistical factors and their indicators, which determine transport flows distribution in the transport network. 3. To make empirical research of indices of logistical factors in Lithuanian case. Scientific novelty of the research 1. The analysis of the research level of the scientific problem shows a very narrow theoretical view of determining transport flows. Many authors analyze internal factors only and do not estimate logistical needs of consignors and consignees. 2. The created new models determine transport flows and freight flows in transport network by internal and external specific logistical factors as well. 3. The results of empirical research of external factors confirm the created new models and provide a new interpretation and theoretical view of regularities of freight flows formation. Direct influence on basic transportation process characteristics and control is exercised by clients of transport companies. The basic attitudes for defending 1 The advantages and disadvantages of approaches of numerous researchers on logistic and transportation functions. 2 The models determining distribution of transport flows according to logistical factors. 3 The conclusions of empirical research of logistical factors' influence in Lithuanian case. The significance of the research. Theories proposed by many authors on transport and logistic functioning and interaction are analyzed, and a new point of theoretical view is given. The created models would be fit for forecasting of transport flows and planning of investments in transport infrastructure. The models would help the government, transport and logistics companies to make strategic decisions for development projects. Results of empirical research, which prove theoretical models are important for transport and logistic service providers and their customers for better common understanding and common activities. Methodology of the research is based on regression and correlative analysis, forecasting, as well as on market survey and mathematical modeling. Approbation of the work. Main theses of the dissertation were approbated in 3 scientific published works and 14 scientific conferences papers. Dissertation's structure. The work consists of introduction, three chapters, conclusions and a list of literature (123 scientific works). The amount of the work is: 108 pages, 61 figures and 20 tables. The work includes 6 appendixes. Conclusions The theoretical analysis of logistics influence on transport flows distribution concepts by many researchers, the mathematical modeling of transport flows determination factors and empirical research to give the following conclusions: 1. Many scientists explore logistics and transport by different concepts, however there are no special investigations of logistical impact on transport flows distribution in their works. The analysis of scientific works shows a dual aspect of transport flows distribution. The first theory maintains that technological engineering solutions determine transport flows; the second theory considers that they are determined by logistical factors such as: 1) added value; 2) minimization of logistics costs; 3) customer service. 2. The supporters of technological approach focus the attention on mathematical modeling of freight flows in transport network, nodes and links, as well as logistical chains. According to this point of view, physical characteristics of links and nodes only give possibility to solve the task of freight flows distribution. The scientific problem is that physical characteristics do not suffice for the right solution of this task. It is important to find and estimate external logistical factors. 3. It is important to estimate that transport flows formation is determined in long-term period according to the requirements of manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The trade centralization is one of the basic elements in formation of logistical channels and distribution centers, and transport flows of course. 4. The mathematical model of transport flows distribution is created here. The model gives peculiarities of freight flows distribution according to estimation of economical, juridical and physical parameters of nodes and links. If a logistical subsystem of the given sub-region does not constitute the entire goods traffic channel from the consignor to the consignee, but it is a constituent part of the entire logistical channel from the consignor to the consignee, then the flow traffic goods through that sub-region will be dependent not only on the characteristics of the logistical channel existing in the sub-region's logistical system, but it will also depend on other regions, the logistical systems of which are involved in the common logistical channel. The minimization of the characteristics of any element may cause the minimization of the characteristics of the entire logistical channel as well as the loss of its competitive abilities. 5. The model of shipment grouping according to peculiarities of transport flows and logistic requirements is created. The model enables the estimating of characteristics of freight origins and destination points and forecasting of grouped shipment routes. 6. The survey shows dual approach to transport flows distribution as well as theoretical analysis. Transport flows are distributed according to logistic strategy of transport service consumers and technological solutions, and implementations of providers as well. The survey demonstrates that transport companies are not only 'sellers' or 'providers' of transport services. They are logistical partners of transport service consumers. The strategic partnership of trading and transport companies determines in many cases the formation of transport flows in Lithuania. According forecast of 5 % yearly trade growth, freight volume by road and rail in Lithuania will increase to 133.6 million tons in year 2015. 7. The basic logistical factors determining the distribution of transport flows in Lithuania according to the survey are these: geography of consumers markets, geography of basic transport nodes, structures of logistical channels, perspective of urban development, shortest paths, political and anti-criminal security of transit, grouping of goods, national factor.
