A multiagent approach to solving the dynamic postdisaster relief distribution problem

Enhancing AAA capabilities in humanitarian supply chains through 4PL adoption

“…The respondents suggested that 4PL adoption was an important catalyst for change in the HSC, in particular focusing on its ability to coordinate the diverse actors involved (Zacharia et al, 2011), integrate processes and information across the HSC (Maghsoudi and Pazirandeh, 2016) and act as a single point of contact (Gnyawali and Park, 2011), all of which could result in better supply management, simplified processes and enhanced flexibility and speed of the humanitarian operations (Abidi et al, 2015). Acknowledging the diversity inherent within the sector (Maghsoudi and Pazirandeh, 2016;Vaillancourt, 2016;Espejo-Diaz and Guerrero, 2021), conflict management by a 4PL provider was also seen as a key advantage of 4PL adoption to significantly improve alignment within HSCs.…”

“…HSCs involve the planning, management and delivery of an efficient and cost-effective flow of goods and services, from the point of origin to the point of consumption by populations affected by humanitarian disasters (Tatham and Pettit, 2010). Numerous stakeholders are involved within an HSC, including government, military, international and local HOs, donors, private sector organisations and local communities (Maghsoudi and Pazirandeh, 2016;Vaillancourt, 2016;Espejo-Diaz and Guerrero, 2021). All of these actors must operate in a complex and highly uncertain environment, often characterised by unpredictable beneficiary needs, limited availability of actors and the disruption of basic infrastructure and services (Balcik et al, 2010).…”