Application of industry 4.0 technologies for mitigating humanitarian supply chains risks: the case of Covid-19

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study aims at integrating and combining successful digital tools such as Blockchain technology, Internet of Things (IoT), and Cloud Computing (CC) to digitalise HSC. To show the enabling of these digital tools, we first conducted a real case study in collaboration with a major leader in real estate diagnostics and building technical data. Second, to mitigate the impact of various disturbances and risks of COVID-19 on supply chain (SC) performances, we modelled two logistics networks, i.e. before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, we proposed two efficient solutions. In the first solution, we proposed a risk mitigation matrix model based on the cause-effect diagram. In the second one, we developed an advanced digital model which is completely based on Industry 4.0 technologies. Results showed that the new digital model was more efficient since it enables to enhance HSC performances by mitigating risks and enabling tracking, monitoring, facilitating coordination, real-time information sharing, and flexibility during humanitarian operations.