Segmenting critical factors for enhancing the use of IT in humanitarian supply chain management

This study intends to explore and segment the critical factors (CFs) to enhance the use of Information Technology (IT) in Humanitarian Supply Chain (HSC), particularly in the Indian context. In this study, ten influencing factors has been identified through an extensive literature review and expert opinion. A structural model and cause - effect relationship diagram was developed using decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method for the identification of CFs. The present study adopt a comprehensive and rigorous procedure to identify six CFs namely, top management support, Government support, feedback mechanism to facilitate learning from prior experiences, transparent and accountable supply chain, strategic planning, and mutual learning with other commercial organizations (COs). The developed framework provides a simple, effective and efficient way to enhance the utilization of IT in HSC and in large to improve the competencies and performance of HSC. (C) 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.