An integrated framework for digitalization of humanitarian supply chains in post COVID-19 era

Abstract

Digital Supply Chains (DSCs) are transforming industries across various domains. Digitalization can improve coordination, increase data collection and retention capacities, enhance funding mechanisms, and improve operational performance and resource utilization. However, DSC adoption is constrained by lack of funding, operational complexities, infrastructure issues, etc. Thus, the need emerges to explore the digitalization of the Humanitarian Supply Chain (HSC) and provide solutions that can ease the adoption of DSC. In this study, a framework is created to facilitate the digitalization process of HSC in post COVID-19 era. Nineteen related drivers are identified with the potential to digitalize the HSC. The drivers are identified from the previous literature and finalized with the assistance of HSC stakeholders. A Principal Component Analysis is carried out to discover the most pertinent drivers from the identified list of drivers. A Kappa analysis is adopted to perfect the priority map of the digitalization drivers. Further, the neutrosophic DEMATEL methodology is adopted to prioritize the potential drivers and find their dependency on each other. The results from the study indicate that the most influential drivers fall under the operational and technological categories. However, the social drivers have the potential to play a significant contribution in an effort to HSC digitalization. In addition, the study presents strategies for enhancing funds collection and data management using emerging technologies. These strategies can assist HSC decision-makers in formulating relevant policies and strategic interventions.