Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this study is to examine various data sources to identify trends and themes in
humanitarian supply chain management (HSCM) in the digital age.
Design/methodology/approach – In this study, various data sources such as published literature and social
media content from Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs and forums are used to identify trending topics and themes on
HSCM using topic modelling.
Findings – The study examined 33 published literature and more than 94,000 documents, including tweets
and expert opinions, and identified eight themes related to HSCM in the digital age namely “Digital technology
enabled global partnerships”, “Digital tech enabled sustainability”, “Digital tech enabled risk reduction for
climate changes and uncertainties”, “Digital tech enabled preparedness, response and resilience”, “Digital tech
enabled health system enhancement”, “Digital tech enabled food system enhancement”, “Digital tech enabled
ethical process and systems” and “Digital tech enabled humanitarian logistics”. The study also proposed a
framework of drivers, processes and impacts for each theme and directions for future research.
Originality/value – Previous research has predominantly relied on published literature to identify emerging
themes and trends on a particular topic. This study is unique because it examines the ability of social media
sources such as blogs, websites, forums and published literature to reveal evolving patterns and trends in
HSCM in the digital age.