Comparative approaches to critical inventory management in disaster response: A case study of governmental and non-governmental organisations in Pakistan

Abstract

Efficient inventory management plays a vital role in humanitarian operations, particularly in disaster-prone regions where the timely delivery of essential supplies can save lives. This study defines critical inventory management as the systematic process of identifying, pre-positioning, and delivering essential relief items including food, water, medical kits, and shelter materials required for effective emergency response. Using a multiple case study approach, this research examines the inventory management practices of two key actors: the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the primary governmental disaster response agency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and a prominent local non-governmental organisation (LNGO). Semi-structured interviews with senior leaders from both organisations reveal significant differences in operational frameworks, resource allocation, and adaptive capacities. The findings indicate that PDMA adopts a proactive, resilience-focused strategy characterised by pre-emptive planning and pre-stocked supplies. In contrast, the LNGO employs a more flexible approach, relying on rapid procurement and adaptability to evolving needs. The study highlights how organisational mandates and contextual factors critically shape inventory management strategies. It concludes that integrating systematic governmental preparedness with NGO flexibility could significantly enhance disaster response effectiveness. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed, underscoring the importance of collaborative, context-sensitive approaches to humanitarian inventory management.