Analysis of supply chain vulnerability factors in manufacturing enterprises: a fuzzy DEMATEL approach

With an increase in supply chain disruptions, managing supply chain vulnerability has become a key factor to build resilient supply chains. Although supply chain vulnerability and associated factors are mostly studied individually or with selected groups, the supply chain literature lacks comprehensive and systematic studies. The current study aims to identify and segregate the supply chain vulnerability factors for manufacturing enterprises based on causal-effect relationships that exist between them. The supply chain vulnerability factors are identified from the extant literature review. Its applicability in Indian manufacturing enterprises is discussed with experts drawn from industry and academia. The cause-effect relationships of selected supply chain vulnerability factors are analysed using the fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. The obtained results indicate that supply design and supply chain efficiency-related factors are effect factors, whereas supply chain collaboration and information technology-related factors are causal factors. Complexity, centralisation, supplier concentration and low-cost sourcing are found to be the most prominent factors. This research contributes to the literature on supply chain vulnerability by describing the causal relationships among key factors impacting it. It would help managers to develop appropriate disruptions mitigation strategy(s) to make a resilient and robust supply chain.