Methods of risk assessment and their suitability in a logistic environment

Complex logistic systems and autonomous logistic objects are more fault-prone than previously assumed. The reason for this is the interaction between the quantity of autonomous entities which leads to incalculable states on a local and a system level. In this context, the existence of possible hazards and chances has to be regarded. In order to handle the existing risks of complex logistic systems and autonomous logistic objects a proactive risk management system seems to be an adequate supplementation of a holistic process management system, because it supports the design of processes which are robust and insusceptible to existing and occurring anthropogenic and environmental hazards. Furthermore, it enables the entities to prepare decisions on their own and realize them. For this reason, the development of a proactive risk management system can be considered as a relevant success factor for complex logistic systems and for autonomous logistic objects. To develop a proactive risk management system which fulfils it is important to generate a consistent understanding of risk and to choose the suitable methods of risk assessment. This paper analyzes essential parts for a convenient risk definition and examines methods that allow the adequate management of system and process related risk.