Information sharing and information quality in Southern African humanitarian supply chains during disaster response

Abstract

Orientation: A global increase in the frequency and severity of disasters has underscored the critical need for more effective humanitarian supply chains (HSCs) and the optimisation of humanitarian organisation (HO) operations.

Research purpose: This study explored the role of information sharing and information quality between HOs in Southern Africa during disaster response.

Motivation for the study: The effectiveness of HSCs is heavily reliant on the efficient sharing of high-quality information. Despite research addressing various challenges in humanitarian logistics, significant gaps remain, particularly concerning information sharing and quality during disaster response efforts. These challenges are even more pronounced in developing countries, where the complexities of communication and infrastructure exacerbate the issue.

Research design, approach and method: Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 participants who are employed by humanitarian relief organisations in Southern Africa. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data.

Main findings: The study reveals that effective information sharing during disaster response is crucial for coordination, transparency and efficient operations, facilitated through methods such as meetings, humanitarian relationship management and cluster-based approaches. Quality information, characterised by accuracy, clarity and trustworthiness, is ensured through dedicated quality assurance teams, manual vetting and data cross-checking. However, significant challenges persist, including information duplication, lack of inter-actor sharing and ethical issues, highlighting the need for improved tools and processes to address these barriers.

Practical and/or managerial implications: Practitioners can leverage the insights from the findings of this study to develop and implement proactive strategies for information sharing and quality, enhancing their effectiveness in future disaster responses.

Contributions and/or value add: This study contributes to knowledge by elucidating the specific roles of information sharing and information quality within HSC disaster response. It also identifies the methods and tools employed to enhance these aspects, with a particular focus on the Southern African context.