Coordination in humanitarian relief chains: chain coordinators

TLDR: In this paper, the authors identify chain coordinators and explore their roles and highlight the advantages of coordination, specific competencies of the coordinators, and challenges in the coordination. But, the authors do not consider the role of project managers in the 2005 South Asian earthquake.

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify chain coordinators and to explore their roles. The paper also highlights certain advantages of coordination, specific competencies of the coordinators, and challenges in the coordination.Design/methodology/approach – This is a case study research. The data were collected through interviews, observations, and personal experiences of working as a logistics manager and a project manager in the 2005 South Asian earthquake.Findings – The coordinated organizations manage a number of complex relationships to respond to the disasters effectively and efficiently. An umbrella organization plays a chain coordinator role in horizontal coordination. The umbrella organization leads, directs, and makes major decisions. A country director/programme manager acts as a strategic coordinator in vertical coordination. However, logistics managers, procurement managers and project managers (operations coordinators) also handle coordination activities. The coordinators’ tangible...