Complex Network Analysis

Can you develop new methods and metrics to:

• Identify what makes a node critically important in a complex supply network?
• Determine which nodes are most vulnerable to disruption?

This challenge asks you to identify the most critical and most vulnerable nodes in a structured supply network dataset. Critical nodes are those whose disruption would have the greatest impact on the overall network. This is intentionally left open to interpretation—please explain any assumptions you make. Vulnerable nodes are those most likely to be disrupted. Again, this is loosely defined to allow for flexible approaches. We encourage creative and well-reasoned analyses within these broad definitions.

Dataset

The dataset represents the topological structure of a large, complex supply network, which includes around . It includes:

• Nodes: Firms (legal business entities)
• Edges: Supply relationship betwee firms
• Locations: Countries where firms operate
• Products: Different types of products produced by firms

Important:

• The dataset is a static snapshot of a real-world industry, collected using methods described in the references below. It may include some uncertainty or noise.
• Since it is static, you should ignore dynamic behaviors like network adaptation or how long disruptions last.
• A firm may:
  • Operate in multiple countries
  • Produce multiple products
• A product may be:
  • Produced by multiple firms
  • Produced in multiple locations
• Assume that all product types are essential for the industry. They are used in various ways to assemble different end-user products.

Use your analysis to explore how supply networks respond to disruption—and how they might be made more resilient.

Sample Dataset

👉 Click the link to access the sample network, which includes approximately 10% nodes of the final network.

Final Dataset for Competition

Important: Access to the dataset requires first to register this challenge.

👉 Click the link to access the FINAL dataset for competition.

Evaluation and Scoring

This competition is all about creativity and innovation. We invite participants to challenge conventional methods and explore new frontiers in supply network analysis. You are encouraged to use a wide range of tools and methods—from machine learning and simulation to complex network analysis and beyond. Traditional techniques such as centrality measures and agent-based models have been used in related research, but we welcome novel approaches.

Your solution will be evaluated by a panel of three senior researchers with expertise in this field. The panel will assess your submission based on the clarity, originality, and rigour of your approach.

We are particularly looking for submissions that clearly state their assumptions, justify their methodology, and demonstrate original thinking。 There is no single "correct" answer—what matters most is how well you make your case.

Submission

Participants must submit a report (maximum 500 words, in .pdf or .docx format) summarising their findings.

Please send your report to scl.data.challenge@gmail.com. Make sure to include the word "Delay" in the subject line. The submission deadline is 5:00 PM (GMT+2) on 2 July 2025.

Important: Your report must include:

• A list of the identified most critical and most vulnerable nodes (firms)
• A clear description of the approach and methodology used

Awards and Certificates

Differed from the other two competitions, in this competition, only one award will be presented in this competition:

• 🏆 Award for Innovation and Creativity: Recognises a model that demonstrates exceptional creativity and insight in its approach.
• 🎓 Certificate of Participation: Participants can choose to opt in during registration to receive a Certificate of Participation for this competition.

Let your ideas shape the future of resilient and intelligent supply chains!!!