ABSTRACT
A network is a set of interconnected entities. Networks permeate many aspects of human endeavor, as evidenced by the structures in education, society, and business. Technological advances are catalyzing an unprecedented level of connectivity and dynamic flow. The central problem we address in this monograph is network failure, precipitated by various types of risks. To assist in exploring and solving this problem, we focus specifically on supply networks, and recommend architecting Fail-safe Supply Networks.
In this chapter, we investigate two main types of risks that threaten supply networks, namely variations (low impact) and disruptions (high impact), and explain at a high level the elements of fail-safe supply networks: reliability, robustness, resilience, flexibility, and structural controllability. Finally, we provide an overview of the following chapters, wherein we describe each of the elements of fail-safe supply networks and their models in detail, culminating with our thoughts on how these models can extend beyond supply networks.
