Strategies to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruptions During COVID-19: The Lived Experience of SC Professionals

Author(s):

  • Loo Saw Khuan1 (Sunway College, Selangor 47500, Malaysia)
  • Himanshu Shee1 (Victoria University Business School, Melbourne, Australia)
  • Tan Suan See1 (Eagle Horizon, Selangor 47500, Malaysia)

Abstract:
Drawing on resource dependence theory (RDT), the objective of this study is to empirically explore supply chain disruptions of COVID-19, and suggest strategies to mitigate them. In-depth interviews were conducted with supply chain professionals working in the Electrical & Electronic (E&E) industry in Malaysia. Interviews were analyzed by following seven steps of the van Kaam method. Findings suggest six strategies: global command centre with daily planning cycle to mitigate component shortages; collaboration with suppliers to mitigate glove shortages; assist local suppliers in obtaining permits to mitigate disrupted manufacturing; dual sourcing to mitigate single-sourcing disruptions; collaboration with freight carriers and government agencies to mitigate disrupted freight; and ERP-integrated EDI to mitigate disrupted data sharing. The findings offer strategies for managers to de-risk their supply chains in post-COVID-19 era, and it could be applied further in similar future supply chain disruptions.

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