A system dynamics model in the humanitarian supply chain based on blockchain technology

Abstract

One of the most important issues in the Humanitarian Supply Chain (HSC) is the delivery of goods at the right time and at the right cost, the ability to track goods, and increase trust among supply chain members to increase synergy. This study explored the impact of Blockchain Technology (BT) in the HSC and the extent to which these goals are covered using a system dynamics model. To do this, first, the previous studies in the literature were reviewed. Then, the effective variables were determined by surveying the subject-matter experts. Furthermore, the relationships between the identified variables were evaluated by developing a cause-effect model. Then, by designing the stock-flow models and related tests, the relevant model was validated, and finally, two scenarios of the mild and server economic crisis were evaluated. For each scenario, three policies of using BT, increasing the workforce, and increasing the suppliers' transport capacity were reviewed. The results of simulating the model and the policies showed that using BT is the best policy to achieve the goals during a severe economic crisis. Furthermore, when the economic crisis is mild, if the demand for goods is very high, this policy is also effective. However, increasing the workforce is a more effective policy when the demand for goods is low.