Critical Success Factors for Humanitarian Logistics: A Literature Review

Humanitarian logistics (HL) is vital in disaster response and emergency relief operations. Understanding the critical success factors (CSFs) enables humanitarian organizations to optimize their operations and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their logistics processes. Through a comprehensive examination of literature between 2005 and 2023, this study identifies crucial elements (CSFs). It classifies them into ‘vital few’ and ‘useful many’ based on their occurrence frequencies using Pareto analysis. The results identify CSFs, including the application of modern information technology, well-planned emergency relief system, coordination, and collaboration with stakeholders, timely and relief need assessment, organizational structure, clear awareness of responsibilities, and materials and resources as vital factors. The analysis highlights the significance of the vital factors in ensuring the timely and effective delivery of aid and services to affected populations. By understanding and addressing these critical success factors, humanitarian organizations can enhance their capacity to respond to crises and positively impact the lives of those in need.