zeedimension.comzeedimension.comzeedimension.com

How to Model Risk Propagation in Supply Chains

How to Model Risk Propagation in Supply Chains
Transform your supply chain from fragile to resilient using advanced modeling techniques.

The Challenge

Supply Chains Are Interconnected—and Vulnerable
A disruption at one node can cascade across the entire network.
But how do we model and prepare for that?

What is Risk Propagation?

Risk Propagation = Chain Reaction
A failure in one supplier, system, or region causes multiple downstream effects:
  • Production halts
  • Delivery delays
  • Rising costs It’s complex. But it’s predictable—with the right models.

Why It Matters

Risk Can Spread Like Fire.
Understanding how it spreads helps:
  • Predict failures
  • Strengthen weak links
  • Build operational resilience

Modeling Techniques

4 Powerful Ways to Model Risk Propagation:
  1. Network Analysis
  2. Agent-Based Modeling
  3. System Dynamics
  4. Bayesian Networks

Network Analysis

Map Your Supply Chain Like a Graph
  • Nodes = suppliers/logistics hubs
  • Edges = material/information flow Metrics like betweenness and centrality help pinpoint critical failure points.

Agent-Based Modeling

Simulate Autonomous Behavior
Each supplier or agent responds to disruptions based on rules.
Helps capture emergent behavior and real-world complexity.

System Dynamics

Model the Flow Over Time
  • Simulates inventory, demand, and response loops
  • Ideal for bullwhip effect or stress testing policies

Bayesian Networks

Quantify Probabilities and Dependencies
“If supplier A fails, there’s a 70% chance that…”
Great for predictive risk scoring and scenario forecasting.

Where’s the Data?

Pull From Key Sources:
  • ERP & logistics systems
  • IoT & GPS data
  • Risk ratings & audits
  • Geopolitical & climate feeds

Real-World Scenarios

How Risk Cascades:
  1. Tier-2 Earthquake → Global Shortage
  2. Cyberattack on Logistics → Port Delays
  3. Trade Sanctions → Supply Chain Freeze

Resilience Strategies

How to Fight Back:
  • Stress Testing & Simulations
  • Digital Twins of the Supply Chain
  • Supplier Diversification
  • AI-Powered Risk Forecasting

Top Tools to Explore

  • AnyLogic – Multi-method simulation
  • NetworkX / Gephi – Network visualization
  • FlexSim – Discrete event modeling
  • Everstream / Resilinc – Real-time risk intelligence

Final Thought

Model. Simulate. Adapt.
Supply chain risk is inevitable—but catastrophic failure is not.
With the right models, you can stay resilient, responsive, and ready.

Leave A Comment

At vero eos et accusamus et iusto odio digni goikussimos ducimus qui to bonfo blanditiis praese. Ntium voluum deleniti atque.

Melbourne, Australia
(Sat - Thursday)
(10am - 05 pm)
Melbourne, Australia
(Sat - Thursday)
(10am - 05 pm)

Discover Who We Are & What We Do

Fill in the Form to Download

Company Download (#7)