Fuzzy multi-attribute group decision making to identify the order of establishing temporary logistics hubs during disaster response

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to reveal the importance of the order of establishment of temporary logistics hubs (TLHs) when resources (mobile storage units used as TLHs) are limited and to present the development and implementation of a methodology that determines the order of establishment of TLHs to support post-disaster decision making.Design/methodology/approachIt employed a decision support system that considers multiple decision makers and subjective attributes, while also addressing the impreciseness inherent in post-disaster decision making for ordering the establishment of TLHs. To do so, an optimization model was combined with a fuzzy multi-attribute group decision making approach. A numerical illustration was performed using data from the April 2015 Nepal Earthquake.FindingsThe results showed the location and order of establishment of TLHs, and demonstrated the impact of decision makers’ opinions on the overall ordering.Research limitations/implicationsThe study does not discuss the uncertain nature of the location problem and the potential need for relocation of TLHs.Practical implicationsThis methodology offers managerial insights for post-disaster decision making when resources are limited and their effective utilization is vital. The results highlight the importance of considering the opinions of multiple actors/decision makers to enable coordination and avoid complication between the growing numbers of humanitarian responders during disaster response.Originality/valueThis study introduces the concept of the order of establishment of TLHs and demonstrates its importance when resources are limited. It develops and implements a methodology determining the order of establishment of TLHs to support post-disaster decision making.