Abstract:
This thesis provides an evaluation of the Contingency Plans that Logistics firms should have in place to execute smooth functioning of its activities during natural disasters and man-made disasters. The study is being conducted due to the frequency of disasters lately around the world and their impact on organizations and its functions. The study aims to emphasize the significance of contingency plans for organizations which is contrary to the JIT approach used by many organizations currently.
A desk study was conducted and the research method used for this thesis was exploratory research. The method through which data was collected included qualitative research from Journal Articles about logistics and literature of supply chain management. For this thesis, a case study of logistics organization was conducted that helped in exploring the methods used by some firms in overcoming the disasters they have faced. Moreover, observation method has been used to investigate how personnel in logistic firms overcome disaster disruptions to get functions completed. The employees were observed during their daily work to get an understanding of how they complete customer order on time even during times of disruptions.
Various qualitative models have been presented including Supply Chain Characteristics and Belbin’s Team Role that various authors have suggested. By implementing these models, organizations can better prepare themselves to overcome disaster disruptions. SWOT Analysis has also been presented to hold a comparative analysis. The results have led to the significance of contingency plans as compare o JIT approach and lean structure of organizations. Moreover, organizations need to adopt collaboration and have Crisis Management Teams to efficiently respond to disasters.
