How Disruptions Affect Global Supply Chains
Open Access
- Author:
- Buckel, Zachary
- Area of Honors:
- Supply Chain and Information Systems
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- Robert Alexander Novack, Thesis Supervisor
John C Spychalski, Thesis Honors Advisor - Keywords:
- Supply Chain
Supply Chain Disruptions
Adaptability
COVID-19
Supply Chain Resilience - Abstract:
- In recent years, supply chains have become more global. The more widespread a supply chain becomes, the more susceptible it is to disruptions. This research will examine how different types of disruptions affect supply chains. It defines what a disruption is and provides real world examples of how a company is impacted when the supply chain is interrupted. Then, potential strategies to mitigate the effects of disruptions are discussed. While there are no clear-cut solutions to preventing disruptions, companies can act proactively and prepare for the disruption so the supply chain can still operate. The research also discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping how supply chains are being managed. Since there is no disruption that can compare to a global pandemic, companies are forced to make quick decisions to keep the supply chain running. A risk analysis tool is then introduced to assist in explaining how damaging a disruption can be to a supply chain. The results of the research show that one of the best ways to build a resilient supply chain is to connect all the links within the chain from the suppliers all the way to the distributors. Connectivity leads to fast communication which is key when dealing with a disruption. This research concludes with three recommendations that can be use in any industry to make the supply chain more resilient.