Simulation Applications in Humanitarian Logistics: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Humanitarian logistics involve planning, acting and controlling situations in which vulnerable people are involved. Simulation techniques can successfully represent the dynamics of disasters, characterized by situations of complexity and uncertainties. This work aims to review papers that apply simulation techniques to solve problems that arise in disaster situations. To accomplish this, we analysed 33 papers published from 2010 to 2019, indexed in Scopus or Web of Science databases, that used simulation techniques to solve humanitarian problems. The descriptive analysis conducted found out that there is a small but increasing number of papers over time. Discrete events simulation and system dynamics are the most used techniques. From the content analysis we find that most research focuses on short term decisions and solving problems related to post-disaster response in unforeseen events. However, topics such as evacuation and transportation of victims are still unexplored.