Based on literature on "wicked" (Rittel and Webber 2007) or "messy" problems (Ackoff
1981) a conceptual framework for “messy supply chains” is developed. Findings from a
series of semi-structured interviews explore the presence and potential effects of each of
the “messy” characteristics in humanitarian logistics (HL), with a focus on three case
studies of humanitarian responses. Aspects of behavioural complexity are currently
underrepresented in HL literature. This could be a major reason why tools and
techniques from commercial logistics do not always apply in a humanitarian context,
providing researchers and practitioners with new insights into potential approaches to
HL challenges
