Strategies to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruptions During COVID-19: The Lived Experience of SC Professionals

Drawing on Resource Dependence Theory (RDT), the objective of this study is to empirically explore supply chain disruptions of COVID-19, and suggest strategies to mitigate them. In-depth interviews were conducted with supply chain professionals working in the Electrical & Electronic (E&E) industry in Malaysia. Interviews were analysed by following seven steps of the van Kaam method. Findings suggest six strategies: global command centre with daily planning cycle to mitigate component shortages; collaboration with suppliers to mitigate glove shortages; assist local suppliers in obtaining permits to mitigate disrupted manufacturing; dual sourcing to mitigate single-sourcing disruptions; collaboration with freight carriers and government agencies to mitigate disrupted freight; and ERP-integrated EDI to mitigate disrupted data sharing. The findings offer strategies for managers to de-risk their supply chains in post-COVID-19 era, and it could be applied further in similar future supply chain disruptions.