A Framework for Humanitarian Logistics Coordination in Disaster Relief

Abstract The challenge in managing logistics needs in disaster relief response is seen to be getting more acute now, especially when more actors from agencies are involved. Although there are many policies, guidelines and procedures that govern logistics operations management, it is found that the implementation differs depending on the assigned agency, work culture and the understanding of a direction. To unite these agencies is a very difficult process when aiming for the coordination of management logistics needs. This research is motivated by the lesson learnt from logistics operation in the 2004 Aceh Tsunami. The Delphi technique is employed to integrate the insights of expert stakeholders in the development of Humanitarian Logistics Coordination framework. This technique is used through a multi-round, iterative process involving a carefully selected panel of experts in humanitarian logistics. In the first round, experts are interviewed with encompassing key elements of the proposed framework. Responses are anonymised, aggregated, and fed back to participants in subsequent rounds which were done through Focus Group Discussions. This process continues until consensus is reached among the expert panel. Then this input was used to develop the framework core components and resource identification. This framework has the potential to enhance humanitarian logistics in disaster relief effectiveness.