Design of a supply chain management model for construction project based on viable system model( case study: petrochemical construction project)

The application of supply chain management within the construction industry presents significant challenges due to the transient nature of construction projects, high levels of customization, low repeatability of activities, absence of a production line, and interdependent relationships among activities. Construction supply chains are intricate systems, where the final performance results from numerous decisions made across multiple independent companies. Interactions among supply chain stakeholders and the unique characteristics of each project create complex phenomena with multiple interconnected elements and variables. The Viable System Model (VSM), rooted in organizational cybernetics, provides a structured approach to addressing complex and unstructured problems. This structured approach allows analysts to gain in-depth insights into the functional issues of the existing system and understand how to modify the system design to adapt to internal and external disruptions.MethodologyDespite the extensive capabilities of the Viable System Model as a diagnostic tool for assessing organizational structure and achieving viability, a systematic and distinct methodology for its application is lacking. Researchers in VSM often do not employ a specific methodology for systems analysis. In this study, we propose a methodology for applying the VSM as a diagnostic tool for organizations, derived from a review of theoretical foundations and practical requirements of VSM. Building on Jackson's methodology outlined in his book "System Thinking, Creative Holism for Managers," we have developed a methodology by integrating Jackson's approach with case study research. This methodology includes stages such as designing a diagnostic framework, selecting case studies, identifying systems, conducting system diagnosis, and validating the model. We applied this methodology to diagnose the supply chain of an Iranian petrochemical construction project, resulting in the development of a viable system model. The validity of the research methodology and findings was confirmed through expert participation and the application of multiple qualitative criteria.ResultsFollowing the selection of a case study and the identification of systems, we investigated the existence and function of five subsystems and communication channels within the focal system using a case study approach to gather information and develop the viable system model. Data was collected through semi-structured interv