Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Volume 4 Issue 2
http://www.emeraldinsight.com/toc/jhlscm/4/2

Classifying logistics-relevant disasters: conceptual model and empirical illustration
Cécile L’Hermitte (Australian Maritime College, National Centre for Ports and Shipping, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia)
Peter Tatham (Department of International Business and Asian Studies, Griffith Business School, Gold Coast, Australia)
Marcus Bowles (Australian Maritime College, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia)
Abstract:
Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to use a theory-based approach to develop a new classification model for disasters that reflects their logistics implications, and to contextualise the findings by applying the model to a particular disaster situation.
Design/methodology/approach
– A widespread literature review was conducted in order to conceptualise the proposed disaster classification model and a case study (the 2011-2012 Somali food crisis) was used to provide a practical illustration and an initial validation of the conceptual approach.
Findings
– The new classification model proposes a set of four categories of disasters based on two generic dimensions, whilst simultaneously integrating five situational factors that reflect the impact of the external environment on the logistics operations. The case study confirms that this systemic approach is necessary since, from a logistics perspective, a disaster should be considered in its entirety and within its contextual environment.
Research limitations/implications
– Further research is needed to establish the operational characteristics of each disaster type in order to determine the applicability of business logistics practices to each scenario. In addition, this paper highlights the opportunity to validate or refine the model by using a more varied range of case studies.
Originality/value
– This paper proposes a new classification model for disasters based on their logistics implications and, by integrating the key environmental factors, it moves beyond the traditional 2×2 model found in the literature.

Performance measurement in humanitarian logistics: a customer-oriented approach
Sarah Schiffling (Logistics Research Centre, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK)
Maja Piecyk (Logistics Research Centre, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK)
Abstract:
Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to develop a performance measurement framework that takes into account the key stakeholders of the logistics departments or personnel in humanitarian organisations. It reflects their views and characteristics by adapting the balanced scorecard (BSC) to this environment. The key stakeholders are identified using the stakeholder salience framework by Mitchell et al. (1997).
Design/methodology/approach
– This is a conceptual paper based on a systematic literature review on stakeholders, customers and performance measurement in humanitarian supply chains.
Findings
– Beneficiaries are the customers that are the reason for the existence of humanitarian supply chains. Donors are the stakeholder group with the highest salience due to the greatest amount of power. Both groups have their own interests, creating a challenging environment for performance measurement. Standard business tools such as the BSC have to be adapted accordingly to be useful in this environment.
Research limitations/implications
– This paper is conceptual and the proposed framework is yet to be tested empirically.
Practical implications
– The proposed framework can help humanitarian organisations focus on the aspects of performance that are most relevant to their key customer groups.
Originality/value
– The research brings together the complexities of humanitarian supply chains with the increasing customer focus that can be seen in commercial service supply chains. Based on an assessment of stakeholder salience, the difference in key customer groups is analysed. The resulting framework provides indications for balancing their diverging needs