G.P. Jayasiri, & Raj Prasanna. (2023). Citizen Science for supporting Disaster Management Institutions in Sri Lanka. In V. L. Thomas J. Huggins (Ed.), Proceedings of the ISCRAM Asia Pacific Conference 2022 (pp. 77–88). Palmerston North, New Zealand: Massey Unversity.
Abstract: During 2016, 2017 and 2018, the country witnessed extreme rains which triggered flooding in several urban areas. The number of affected people by the 2018 floods was around 150,000 which shows a significant decrease compared to the events in 2016 and 2017. Several institutions provided their support via funding, relief, and rehabilitation mechanisms during these consecutive disasters. However, there are provisions which can further improve the performance of Disaster Management activities. Given this context, this study is carried out to investigate the application of citizen science concepts in several phases of Disaster Management in Sri Lanka. A scoping review supported by three case studies of floods was considered during the analysis. Limited participation of grass root level communities in decision-making and disaster planning, and issues related to data management are some of the main challenges identified in this study. Participatory mapping, Co-Design Projects, hackathons, and crowdfunding are some of the observed citizen science concepts which can be used to address the challenges and strengthen the Disaster Management activities in Sri Lanka. Further studies including interviews and questionnaire surveys were recommended to justify the findings.
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Gary M. Fetter, Mauro Falasca, Christopher W. Zobel, & Terry R. Rakes. (2010). A multi-stage decision model for debris disposal operations. In C. Zobel B. T. S. French (Ed.), ISCRAM 2010 – 7th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Defining Crisis Management 3.0, Proceedings. Seattle, WA: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: As shown by Hurricane Katrina, disposing of disaster-generated debris can be quite challenging. Extraordinary amounts of debris far exceeding typical annual amounts of solid waste are almost instantaneously deposited across a widespread area. Although the locations and amounts of debris can be easily summarized looking back after recovery activities have been completed, they are uncertain and difficult at best to estimate as debris operations begin to unfold. Further complicating matters is that the capacity of cleanup resources, which is dependent upon available equipment, labor, and subcontractors, can fluctuate during on-going cleanup operations. As a result, debris coordinators often modify initial resource assignments as more accurate debris estimates and more stable resource capacities become known. In this research, we develop a computer-based decision support system that incorporates a multi-stage programming model to assist decision makers with allocating debris cleanup resources immediately following a crisis event and during ongoing operations as debris volumes and resource capacities become known with increasing certainty.
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George H. Bressler, Murray E. Jennex, & Eric G. Frost. (2012). X24 Mexico: Stronger together. In Z.Franco J. R. L. Rothkrantz (Ed.), ISCRAM 2012 Conference Proceedings – 9th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management. Vancouver, BC: Simon Fraser University.
Abstract: Can populations self-organize a crisis response? This is a work in progress report on Exercise 24, X24, Mexico, a follow up to the first two exercises, X24 and X24 Europe The X24 exercises used a variety of free and low-cost social media and web 2.0 tools to organize, plan, and manage local and international expertise and organizations in the response to a preset disaster scenario. The first X24 focused on Southern California, while the second X24, X24 Europe, focused on the Balkan area of Eastern Europe. These exercises involved over 12,500 participants for X24 while X24 Europe had over 49,000 participants. This paper presents an overview of the recently completed X24 Mexico exercise, as well as the preliminary results. © 2012 ISCRAM.
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Gonzalez, J. J., & Eden, C. (2023). Devising Mitigation Strategies With Stakeholders Against Systemic Risks in a Pandemic. In Jaziar Radianti, Ioannis Dokas, Nicolas Lalone, & Deepak Khazanchi (Eds.), Proceedings of the 20th International ISCRAM Conference (pp. 1000–1013). Omaha, USA: University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Abstract: Understanding and managing systemic risk has huge importance for disaster risk reduction in our globally connected world. The COVID-19 pandemic is a prominent case for the global impact of systemic risk. Did so the added urgency of the pandemic systemic risk trigger such paradigm shift? The use of qualitative modelling of systemic risk has progressed the field, particularly when policy makers need support urgently and want to utilize a range of interdisciplinary expertise. We have extended to disaster risk reduction a method for causal mapping for problem solving and strategy development targeting complex project management. Our approach delivers useful, useable, and used mitigation to systemic risk in a pandemic using participatory modelling with practitioners, domain experts and power-brokers.
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Hans Betke. (2015). Structure and Elements of Disaster Response Processes ? A General Meta-Model. In L. Palen, M. Buscher, T. Comes, & A. Hughes (Eds.), ISCRAM 2015 Conference Proceedings ? 12th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management. Kristiansand, Norway: University of Agder (UiA).
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Heiko Roßnagel, & Olaf Junker. (2010). Evaluation of a mobile emergency management system – A simulation approach. In C. Zobel B. T. S. French (Ed.), ISCRAM 2010 – 7th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Defining Crisis Management 3.0, Proceedings. Seattle, WA: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: Large public events such as sporting events, concerts, fairs and street festivals are quite common in metropolitan areas. Because of the high frequency of such events and the increasing number of involved parties, those being responsible for the organization and execution have to cope with increasing complexity and shortening time frames for planning and preperation. Because of the high concentration of passengers, unplanned incidents that occur during these public events can have devastating effects and can lead to crises and disasters. Emergency management systems that utilize mobile communication infrastructures can provide prompt information delivery to save human lives. In this paper we propose a system design for mobile emergency management and outline our approach of evaluating this system design using multi-agent based simulation. To make our simulation of passenger movements as realistic as possible we gathered empirical data for a large event as well as for normal rush hour traffic.
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Helena Mitchell, Jeremy Johnson, & Salimah LaForce. (2010). Wireless emergency alerts: An accessibility study. In C. Zobel B. T. S. French (Ed.), ISCRAM 2010 – 7th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Defining Crisis Management 3.0, Proceedings. Seattle, WA: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: Since 2001, entities in the U.S. have produced studies which address issues regarding the progress of including people with disabilities in emergency planning at the Federal, state and local levels. There is general agreement among these stakeholders that there must be engagement of emergency personnel, robust, reliable and accessible emergency communications to ensure a high quality of public safety. A key step is the development of emergency communication technologies that serve emergency management and public safety personnel's ability to communicate with the public. It is critical that these next-generation warning systems be developed such that persons with disabilities are given equal access to emergency alerts. This paper discusses a research and development effort to identify the accommodations needed by people with disabilities in these next-generation, mobile emergency alerting systems. Prototyping mobile phone-based emergency alert systems are discussed and summative findings from field trials conducted with sensory challenged individuals are presented.
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Henke, S., Widera, A., & Hellingrath, B. (2023). Evaluation-driven Disaster Management Exercises: A Collaborative Toolkit. In Jaziar Radianti, Ioannis Dokas, Nicolas Lalone, & Deepak Khazanchi (Eds.), Proceedings of the 20th International ISCRAM Conference (pp. 989–999). Omaha, USA: University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Abstract: Disaster management exercises are a core component of humanitarian organizations’ preparedness strategies. They entail diverse purposes, from training capabilities of participants to testing response plans to enhancing collaboration between organizations and many more. However, it is uncertain how much exercises contribute to preparedness. Rigorous evaluation is needed to exploit learning opportunities of an exercise. Therefore, exercises must target evaluable objectives, which is complicated by the socio-technical openness of the exercise system, the heterogeneity of organizational needs, and the scarcity of resources. Many different tools aim to support evaluation but are limited to specific use cases, resulting in a fragmented overview for practitioners. Due to the excessive effort involved, practitioners often consider exercise evaluation to be of secondary importance. This study thus proposes the conceptual design of a combined toolkit that supports the practitioners in a more rigorous but resource-efficient evaluation to make disaster management exercises more evaluation-driven.
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Hina Aman, Pourang Irani, & Hai-Ning Liang. (2012). A review of information communication technology applied on common tasks during times of emergency. In Z.Franco J. R. L. Rothkrantz (Ed.), ISCRAM 2012 Conference Proceedings – 9th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management. Vancouver, BC: Simon Fraser University.
Abstract: Research in emergency response systems has produced significant literature in a very short span of time. We review a corpus of published works on how Information Communication Technology (ICT) is being utilized and the type of tasks ICT attempts to support in the event of a crisis due to disasters, whether natural or man-made. In our research, we have been able to distinguish eight types of tasks supported by technology during a disaster. We list some of these technologies used by the public, practitioners and researchers to illustrate the current trends of technology usage. We also identify gaps and technology needs that require our attention. Given the increasing frequency and severity of disasters, this research is timely as it (1) contributes to our understanding of the trends of development and technology use during times of crises and (2) identifies potential areas for future work to improve ICT's role during times of emergency. © 2012 ISCRAM.
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Hüseyin Can Ünen. (2012). Developing a framework for a social vulnerability and consequence-based post-disaster behavior analysis methodology. In Z.Franco J. R. L. Rothkrantz (Ed.), ISCRAM 2012 Conference Proceedings – 9th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management. Vancouver, BC: Simon Fraser University.
Abstract: The proposed study is expected to focus on the less investigated areas by the previous seismic risk analyses in Turkey. Most of the existing loss assessment methodologies focus on structural damage, infrastructural damage, economic impact, and casualties. However, affected population estimates and development of plans for the immediate needs and recovery requirements of the surviving population are also of equal importance. The proposed framework in this aspect will be utilizing previous social vulnerability and seismic loss assessment studies to develop an analysis methodology for affected population and social response analyses. The methodology is expected to help response planners and decision makers in determining the needs for the surviving population in the recovery process. © 2012 ISCRAM.
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Jan Martin Jansen, Bas Lijnse, & Rinus Plasmeijer. (2010). Towards dynamic workflow support for crisis management. In C. Zobel B. T. S. French (Ed.), ISCRAM 2010 – 7th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Defining Crisis Management 3.0, Proceedings. Seattle, WA: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: Current process support technology for crisis management is often limited to either sharing of information or hard-coded process support through dedicated systems. Workflow management systems have the potential to improve crisis response operations by automating coordination aspects. Unfortunately most contemporary systems can only support static workflows, hence yielding inflexible support systems. Recent work on the use of functional programming techniques for workflow modeling has led to the development of the iTask system. It uses function combination to model dynamic data-driven processes and generates executable workflow support systems. Because of its focus on dynamic processes it appears promising for development of flexible crisis response systems. In this paper we present an initial discussion of the potential of the iTask system for crisis management applications. We give an overview of the iTask system, and discuss to what extent it meets the requirements of the crisis management domain.
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Jan Steen Jensen, & Jan Pehrsson. (2009). Central response to large chemical accidents. In S. J. J. Landgren (Ed.), ISCRAM 2009 – 6th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Boundary Spanning Initiatives and New Perspectives. Gothenburg: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: Present scenarios, issues, requirements, experience and solutions from a central government organisation supporting local emergency management organisations. The presentation will cover the experience collected in the DIADEM project by the Danish Emergency Management Organisation with the focus of using ARGOS for response to chemical incidents.
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Jaziar Radianti, Santiago Gil Martinez, Bjørn Erik Munkvold, & Morgan Konnestad. (2018). Co-Designing a Virtual Training Tool for Emergency Management. In Kees Boersma, & Brian Tomaszeski (Eds.), ISCRAM 2018 Conference Proceedings – 15th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 960–970). Rochester, NY (USA): Rochester Institute of Technology.
Abstract: Responders and decision makers can be trained through simulation tools where participants learn how to deal with an ongoing crisis and make decisions through a realistic, simulated environment using a game or gamification approach. Training through a simulated, virtual crisis tool would be a more affordable way of conducting a drill, as a supplement to field drills. In this paper, we describe the requirements' elicitation process for co-design of a virtual training tool for emergency management. The cooperative design process included researchers and end-users together to generate potential solutions for a defined problem. The elicitation process involved brain-storming, interviews and a workshop together with representatives from emergency stakeholders. A systematic qualitative data analysis was conducted. The paper reports our analysis results which serve as a basis for further development of an emergency management virtual training tool using an extreme weather scenario.
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Jeannette N. Sutton. (2012). When online is off: Public communications following the February 2011 Christchurch, NZ, earthquake. In Z.Franco J. R. L. Rothkrantz (Ed.), ISCRAM 2012 Conference Proceedings – 9th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management. Vancouver, BC: Simon Fraser University.
Abstract: This work in progress investigates the communication issues encountered and the strategies used by local government to communicate electronically with disaster affected individuals in the immediate aftermath of the February 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, NZ. It also provides a preliminary examination of the effects of information access on individual perceptions of community resiliency. We draw from a variety of data sources, including field research, interviews, and focus groups with local community members. Ongoing survey research will be integrated into future papers and presentations. This research provides insight into online crisis communications and the effectiveness of strategies to communicate with members of the public in a post-disaster environment when there is limited access to information via electronic channels. © 2012 ISCRAM.
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Jelle Groenendaal, Ira Helsloot, & Christian Reuter. (2022). Towards More Insight into Cyber Incident Response Decision Making and its Implications for Cyber Crisis Management. In Rob Grace, & Hossein Baharmand (Eds.), ISCRAM 2022 Conference Proceedings – 19th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 1025–1036). Tarbes, France.
Abstract: Organizations affected by a cyber-attack usually rely on external Cyber Incident Response (CIR) consultants to conduct investigations and mitigate the impact. These CIR consultants need to make critical decisions that could have major impact on their clients. This preliminary investigation aims to get a better understanding of CIR decision -making and answers the following questions: (1.) To what extent do experienced CIR consultants use a Recognition-Primed Decision (RPD) Making strategy during their work? (2.) What are the implications for cyber crisis management as well as for training and decision -making? To answer these questions, we conducted a literature review and interviewed six experienced CIR consultants using the Critical Decision Method. Our analysis reveals that CIR consultants recognize situations based on past experiences and apply a course of action that has worked effectively in the past. This course of action is mainly aimed at collecting and evaluating more data. This finding differs from other operational domains, such as the military and fire department, where recognition is usually followed immediately by action. For cyber crisis management, this means that crisis management teams should decide to what extent and in what ways they want to mitigate the risk of responding belatedly to cyber events, which could potentially lead to unnecessary data theft and sustained business disruption. Another implication is that crisis management teams should consider whether additional forensic investigations outweigh the expected benefits throughout the response process. For instance, if the likely entry-point of the attacker has been discovered, how much effort should be devoted to exclude other potential entry-points. Reflecting on the status-quo, several implications for training and decision making are provided.
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Jo Erskine Hannay, & Yelte Kikke. (2019). Structured crisis training with mixed reality simulations. In Z. Franco, J. J. González, & J. H. Canós (Eds.), Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response And Management. Valencia, Spain: Iscram.
Abstract: We argue that current technology for crisis training does not explicitly cater well enough for managing training
objectives and skill building metrics throughout the lifespan of training. We suggest how successful crisis training
may be enabled by interoperating next-generation exercise management tools with mixed-reality simulations. We
propose an architecture consisting of (1) a front-end in which training objectives, essential skills, corresponding
events and metrics can be declared, (2) a back-end consisting of simulations that implement the events and metrics
and (3) a middleware which transfers information between the front-end and back-end to enable semi-automatic
composition of the simulations and performance analysis. The purpose of this architecture is to facilitate learning
through the principles of deliberate practice. We indicate where emerging technologies are necessary to achieve this.
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Johannes Sautter, Sebastian Kurowski, Heiko Roßnagel, Wolf Engelbach, & Jan Zibuschka. (2012). Interoperability for information systems in public urban transport security: The SECUR-ED interoperability notation. In Z.Franco J. R. L. Rothkrantz (Ed.), ISCRAM 2012 Conference Proceedings – 9th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management. Vancouver, BC: Simon Fraser University.
Abstract: In public transport and at large urban hubs, such as metro or train stations, transport operators and first responders collaborate in the prevention of and reaction to security issues. Within the EU demonstration project SECUR-ED a specific notation for interoperability of information systems in the domain of public transport security was developed. (In this context, the interoperability of actual operating systems is not the focus.) Based on UML (Unified Modelling Language), the notation language offers the possibility for structured modelling of system-of-systems architectures. Four interoperability object templates and their interdependencies form the underlying basis. Domain-specific annotation rules and guidelines for interoperability objects and their sub-component structures allow collaboration and interpretation of this model on various granularities and stages during a systems engineering process. © 2012 ISCRAM.
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Josey Chacko, Christopher Zobel, & Loren Rees. (2018). Challenges of Modeling Community-Driven Disaster Operations Management in Disaster Recurrent Areas: The Example of Portsmouth, Virginia. In Kees Boersma, & Brian Tomaszeski (Eds.), ISCRAM 2018 Conference Proceedings – 15th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 1022–1029). Rochester, NY (USA): Rochester Institute of Technology.
Abstract: Although one of the dominant paradigms in managing disaster operations is that of modeling decisions around the activities of humanitarian organizations, recent literature has highlighted the importance of managing disaster operations from the perspective of the affected community. Modeling community-driven disaster operations has a unique set of challenges, however, several of which are highlighted in this research effort. These include engaging the community and coordinating amongst multiple decision makers, defining a clear community objective, and planning with long decision horizons. Using the urban area of Portsmouth, Virginia as a case study, this work in progress paper demonstrates a decision approach which addresses these critical elements of community-driven disaster operations management.
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Katelynn Amaris Kapalo, Pamela Wisniewski, & Joseph J. LaViola Jr. (2019). First In, Left Out : Current Technological Limitations from the Perspective of Fire Engine Companies. In Z. Franco, J. J. González, & J. H. Canós (Eds.), Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response And Management. Valencia, Spain: Iscram.
Abstract: The cognitive demands and skills required of a fire engine company when assessing the scene of an incident and
the systems they use to manage this information are a matter of life or death. We conducted a case study with an
entire fire battalion in Florida (35 firefighters at varying levels of command) to assess their routine technology
needs. Using a cognitive work analysis approach, we found that the firefighters in our study relied on mission
critical systems that often failed, as well as disparate secondary systems that lacked integration. Capability gaps
and inaccessible data also increased the likelihood of errors, creating frustration in the systems that both helped
and hindered these firefighters in their daily job tasks. We describe what firefighters need from technology in its
present state and we outline usability issues for technology designers and practitioners to leverage in the design
of future systems.
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Kathleen Ann Moore. (2019). Dark Web, Black Markets: The Utility of Dark in Disaster Recovery Research. In Z. Franco, J. J. González, & J. H. Canós (Eds.), Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response And Management. Valencia, Spain: Iscram.
Abstract: Black markets that develop after disaster events have potential to disrupt recovery efforts, and the Dark Web is the perfect facilitator of these markets. Lack of knowledge about the Dark Web: how to access it, how to safely, efficiently navigate the space, and prevailing myths about its dangers likely lead to this deficiency of research. To date, this area is a critically unexplored area of the Internet in the crisis research literature. This work examines this area of the Internet for utility and insight relevant to crisis managers. A pilot study on Puerto Rico in the months following Hurricane Maria reveals possible indicators of the development of black markets for prescription drugs, food, and water, which can impact long-term recovery and reconstruction efforts when these items are diverted from legal supply chains. As more people adopt this hidden part of the Internet, researchers and managers must do more to pay attention to activities that occur in this space.
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Kees Boersma, Jeroen Wolbers, & Pieter Wagenaar. (2010). Organizing emergent safety organizations: The travelling of the concept 'netcentric work' in the Dutch safety sector. In C. Zobel B. T. S. French (Ed.), ISCRAM 2010 – 7th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Defining Crisis Management 3.0, Proceedings. Seattle, WA: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: This paper is about the introduction of netcentric work in the public safety sector in the Netherlands. The idea behind netcentric work is that a common operational picture will help the professionals to overcome problems with sharing information during crisis. In this WIP paper we will pay attention to netcentric work principles and the dilemma of standardization of technologies versus local adaptation. In the Netherlands the government has chosen to introduce netcentric work via a Platform in which various options are discussed among members of Dutch safety regions. The outcome is a process of negotiation in what we call trading zones. In these trading zones netcentric work is (re)defined. Using theoretical concepts like soft-bureaucracy we show in this paper how netcentric work eventually is not about technology in the first place but a negotiated new way of working and organizing. Further research is needed to understand the full implications of netcentric work for the administration and organization of safety.
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Kevin Wesendrup, Nicola Rupp, Adam Widera, & Bernd Hellingrath. (2019). Challenges and Trends of Data Management for Firefighting in Germany and the Netherlands. In Z. Franco, J. J. González, & J. H. Canós (Eds.), Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response And Management. Valencia, Spain: Iscram.
Abstract: For successful firefighting, information is key. In this work, a general overview of the current challenges and
trends of data management for firefighting in Germany and the Netherlands are examined. This was accomplished
by conducting a literature review to find out the current state-of-the-art in research. The results of the literature
review are then compared with expert sentiments and gaps between research and practice are revealed. Through
the review, six challenge categories are identified: cartographic data harmonization, IS standardization,
information gathering from unstructured data, canonical bodies of knowledge, and data-driven firefighting
support. The challenges and trends are discussed in the context of Germany and the Netherlands and significant
differences are presented. Lastly, the gaps between research and practice are thoroughly analyzed and potentials
for future work revealed.
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Kim Weyns, & Martin Höst. (2009). Dependability of IT systems in municipal emergency management. In S. J. J. Landgren (Ed.), ISCRAM 2009 – 6th International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management: Boundary Spanning Initiatives and New Perspectives. Gothenburg: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: In recent years governmental actors have become more and more dependent on IT systems for their responsibilities in a crisis situation. To avoid unexpected problems with the dependability of IT systems in the aftermath of a crisis it is important that such risks are identified and that measures can be taken to reduce the dependence on systems that could be unreliable. This paper describes two case studies exploring how Swedish municipalities incorporate IT systems in their emergency planning. The study focuses especially on how different actors within a municipality cooperate to analyse the risks of depending on IT systems in critical situations. The study shows that today there is much room for improvement, especially in the communication between IT personnel and emergency managers. Finally, this paper describes the requirements for a process improvement framework that can assist governmental actors in analysing and improving their dependency on IT systems in emergency management.
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Kuntke, F., Bektas, M., Buhleier, L., Pohl, E., Schiller, R., & Reuter, C. (2023). How Would Emergency Communication Based On LoRaWAN Perform? Empirical Findings of Signal Propagation in Rural Areas. In Jaziar Radianti, Ioannis Dokas, Nicolas Lalone, & Deepak Khazanchi (Eds.), Proceedings of the 20th International ISCRAM Conference (pp. 1042–1050). Omaha, USA: University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Abstract: Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies are typically promoted for Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications, but are also of interest for emergency communications systems when regular fixed and mobile networks break down. Although LoRaWAN is a frequently used representative here, there are sometimes large differences between the proposed range and the results of some practical evaluations. Since previous work has focused on urban environments or has conducted simulations, this work aims to gather concrete knowledge on the transmission characteristics in rural environments. Extensive field studies with varying geographic conditions and comparative tests in urban environments were performed using two different hardware implementations. Overall, it was found that the collected values in rural areas are significantly lower than the theoretical values. Nevertheless, the results certify that LoRaWAN technology has a high range that cannot be achieved with other common technologies for emergency communications.
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LaLone, N., Natta, J. V., Cormier, M. V., Fraune, M. R., Hamilton, B., Dugas, P. O. T., et al. (2023). Flying SD Cards, Aerial Repeaters, & Homebrew Apps: Emergent Use of Technologies for Collaboration in Search and Rescue. In Jaziar Radianti, Ioannis Dokas, Nicolas Lalone, & Deepak Khazanchi (Eds.), Proceedings of the 20th International ISCRAM Conference (pp. 1014–1032). Omaha, USA: University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Abstract: Search and rescue (SAR) teams are the first to respond to emergencies. This could include finding lost hikers, shoring buildings, or aiding people post-disaster. SAR combines orienteering, engineering, field medicine, and communication. Technology use in SAR has been changing with the proliferation of information communication technologies; so, we ask, how are established and emerging technologies used in SAR? Understanding how responders are adopting and adapting these technologies during SAR missions can inform future design and improve outcomes for SAR teams. We interviewed SAR volunteers to contextualize their experiences with technology and triangulated with additional questionnaire data. We discuss how technology use in SAR requires an intersection of expert knowledge and creative problem solving to overcome challenges in the field. This research contributes an understanding of the constraints on and implications for future SAR technologies and SAR operators’ creativity in emergent situations.
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