An evaluation of factors influencing the vulnerability of emergency logistics supply chains

Abstract

Emergency logistics supply chains (ELSC) can help to restore normal activities in disaster-affected areas, thus helping to increase the resilience of communities. In order to develop resilient supply chains there needs to be an analysis of the factors affecting the vulnerability of supply chains. In this study, the interlinkages between 15 factors found to influence the vulnerability of both within and outside the ELSC were analysed through the D- Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (D-DEMATEL)-Adversarial Interpretive Structure Model (AISM) modelling techniques. The results show that coordination and cooperation, information and communication mechanisms, and organisational operating environment are among the most important factors, based on the AISM hierarchy. This study will help policy makers to effectively identify vulnerabilities in emergency logistics supply chains and develop stronger strategies to build more resilient supply chains thereby helping to reduce the losses to society caused by disasters.