Course IV „Humanitarian Logistics“ investigates the special requirements of logistics in disasters like earthquakes. Additionally, appropriate methods for decision support are presented and discussed. Cooperation and coordination form a core concern for decision makers in disaster management. Therefore, the EU decision process for implementing humanitarian missions will be described and the role of the logistics cluster will be analyzed.

Lecture 1:
Introduction to humanitarian logistics

Phases of humanitarian logistics

Lecture 2:
Supply chain strategy

Humanitarian supply chain network design

Lecture 3:
Coordination, information and knowledge management

Procurement, delivery and distribution

Lecture 4:

Warehouse and inventory management

Information technology and performance measurement

Lecture 5:

Comparison between military logistics and humanitarian logistics
Decision process of the European Union for the start of a humanitarian mission
Introduction to the planning method for the setup of a humanitarian supply chain

Lecture 6:
Introduction of the Logistics Cluster for the coordination of humanitarian logistics activities
In-class game based on a current situation and use of the instruments of the information portal of the logistics cluster

After successfully completing this course, students should be able to

understand the characteristics and special demands of disaster relief logistics

know the main stakeholders and their role in disaster relief 

critically assess the applicability of logistics concepts from the for-profit sector

know the importance of information management and ways to facilitate its implementation 

This semester, the course will take place on campus.

Common requirements for attendance: Attendance in the first lecture is mandatory for participation in the course. If an absence cannot be avoided inform the lecturer before class (vie email) and provide some form of proof for the absence (e.g. medical confirmation) in the next session.

In total, a minimum requirement for attendance of 80% is required to pass the course. See further information at: https://www.wu.ac.at/fileadmin/wu/h/students/Pruefungsorganisation/Gesetzesgrundlagen/Pruefungsordnung_03.12.2014.pdf

Lectures 

Case Studies

Final Exam

Case Study Presentations and Summary: 30 % 

Individual Assignment: 20 %

In-Class Case Study 10 %

Exam: 40 %

In order to pass the class, you need attend at least 80 % of all classes. If you fulfill this criterion, the following grading scale will be applied:

• Excellent (1): 87.5% - 100.0%
• Good (2): 75.0% - <87.5%
• Satisfactory (3): 62.5% - <75.0%
• Sufficient (4): 50.0% - <62.5%
• Fail (5): <50.0%

The respective research seminar provides the opportunity for students to hone their research and writing skills as preparation for their bachelor thesis (also for WU-Incoming students).