Abstract:
More complex the supply chain (SC), more difficult it becomes to mitigate its
associated risks. It is, therefore, important to manage the complexities in integration of
SC risks and resilient capabilities (RCs) for a resilient SC. This study investigated the
complexity involved in the dynamics of effects between organizations’ SC risks and
RCs to overcome disruptive events. Past researchers investigated how to improve the
performance of construction projects, regardless of the complexities and
interdependencies associated with the risks across the entire SC. Limited work using
the system dynamics (SD) approach to describe the diversity of construction SCs under
risks indicated a research gap that is pursued by this study. This work aimed to analyze
and establish interconnectivity and functionality amongst the construction SC risks and
RCs using systems thinking (ST) and SD modeling approach. SD technique is used to
assess the complexity and integrated effect of SC risks on construction projects to
enhance their resilience. The risks and RCs were identified by critically scrutinizing the
literature and were then ranked through content analysis. Questionnaire surveys and
expert opinions (involving 10 experts) helped develop causal loop diagrams (CLDs)
and SD models with simulations to assess complexity qualitatively and quantitatively
within the system. Research reveals that construction organizations are more vulnerable
to health pandemics, budget overruns, poor information coordination, insufficient
management oversight, and error visibility to stakeholders. Further, the most effective
RCs include assets visibility, collaborative information exchange, business intelligence
gatherings, alternative suppliers, and inventory management systems. This research
helps industry practitioners identify and plan for various risks and RCs within their
organizations and SCs. Furthermore, it helps understand trade-offs between suitable
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RCs to abate essential risks and develop preparedness against disruptions to improve
organizational policy-making, project efficiency, and performance.
