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Stephen Potter, Yannis Kalfoglou, Harith Alani, Michelle Bachler, Simon Buckingham Shum, Rodrigo Carvalho, et al. (2007). The application of advanced knowledge technologies for emergency response. In K. Nieuwenhuis P. B. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Intelligent Human Computer Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM 2007 Academic Proceedings Papers (pp. 361–368). Delft: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: Making sense of the current state of an emergency and of the response to it is vital if appropriate decisions are to be made. This task involves the acquisition, interpretation and management of information. In this paper we present an integrated system that applies recent ideas and technologies from the fields of Artificial Intelligence and semantic web research to support sense-and decision-making at the tactical response level, and demonstrate it with reference to a hypothetical large-scale emergency scenario. We offer no end-user evaluation of this system; rather, we intend that it should serve as a visionary demonstration of the potential of these technologies for emergency response.
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Nanja J. J. M. Smets, Guido Te Brake, Jasper Lindenberg, & Mark A. Neerincx. (2007). Influence of mobile map size and user capacities on situation awareness tested in a virtual environment. In K. Nieuwenhuis P. B. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Intelligent Human Computer Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM 2007 Academic Proceedings Papers (pp. 557–564). Delft: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: In the near future, first responders may become equipped with mobile devices providing navigation, decision and communication support. Because of the complex and chaotic circumstances in which these devices will be used, the devices should support the creation and maintenance of adequate situation awareness. Extensive testing of such devices for crisis management in real-life is expensive, complex, risky and only possible for specific settings. Therefore, we developed a synthetic task environment that is suited for developing and evaluating new concepts. In this paper, we present the results of the first experiment in this environment. Participants had to rescue victims in a synthetic world, and were supported by a map of the area showing the location and orientation of the participant and the victims. The experiment focused on the effects of map size and user's spatial ability on the quality of the situational awareness that was developed by the first responders. Besides the results of the experiment, experiences with the use of a synthetic environment for evaluation and development purposes are presented.
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Connie White, Murray Turoff, & Bartel A. Van De Walle. (2007). A dynamic delphi process utilizing a modified thurstone scaling method: Collaborative judgement in emergency response. In K. Nieuwenhuis P. B. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Intelligent Human Computer Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM 2007 Academic Proceedings Papers (pp. 7–15). Delft: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: In an extreme event or major disaster, very often there are both alternative actions that might be considered and far more requests for actions than can be executed immediately. The relative desirability of each option for action could be a collaborative expression of a significant number of emergency managers and experts trying to manage the most desirable alternatives at any given time, in real time. Delphi characteristics can satisfy these needs given that anyone can vote or change their vote on any two options, and voting and scaling are used to promote a group understanding. Further utilized with Thurstone's Law of Comparative Judgment, a group decision or the range of acceptability a group is willing to consent to, can be calculated and utilized as a means of producing the best decision. A ubiquitous system for expeditious real-time decision making by large virtual teams in emergency response environments is described.
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Gerhard Wickler, Austin Tate, & Stephen Potter. (2007). Integrating discrete event and process-level simulation for flexible training in the I-X framework. In K. Nieuwenhuis P. B. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Intelligent Human Computer Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM 2007 Academic Proceedings Papers (pp. 355–359). Delft: Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management, ISCRAM.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to describe I-Sim, a simulation tool that is a fully integrated part of the underlying agent framework, I-X. I-Sim controls a discrete event simulator, based on the same activity model that is shared between all I-X components, and multiple process-level simulators that model the continuous change caused by actions that are considered as primitives by the rest of the system. The primary purpose of this tool is to support instructors during exercises that are used for training in emergency response. The main advantage the I-Sim tool gives the instructors is flexibility, allowing them to orchestrate and modify existing training scenarios on the fly, adapting them to trainees' needs as required.
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Ignacio Aedo, Daniel Sanz, Paloma Díaz, & Jorge De Castro. (2006). Modelling emergency response communities using RBAC principles. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 426–434). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: One of the main design challenges of any Emergency Management System (EMS) is the diversity of users and responsibilities that must be considered. Modelling the access capabilities of different communities of users is a relevant concern for which the RBAC (Role-Based Access Control) paradigm provides flexible and powerful constructs. In this paper we describe how we used an RBAC meta-model to specify at different levels of abstraction the access policy of a specific EMS called ARCE (Aplicación en Red para Casos de Emergencia). This approach has made it possible to face access modelling at earlier development stages, so that stakeholders got involved in analytical and empirical evaluations to test the correctness and effectiveness of the access policy. Moreover, since the RBAC meta-model is embedded into a web engineering method, we put into practice a holistic process which addresses different design perspectives (structure, navigation, presentation, interaction and access) in an integrated way.
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Gerd Van Den Eede, Willem J. Muhren, Raphaël Smals, & Bartel A. Van De Walle. (2006). IS capability for incident management and the DERMIS design premises. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 251–261). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: In this paper we present a dynamic model of the performance of an organization's Incident Management process as determined by the capability of its supporting emergency response information system. Our work is based on the Capability Trap model by Repenning & Sterman (2001) and draws from the many insights on emergency response information systems design as described in the DERMIS (Dynamic Emergency Response Management Information System) framework established by Turoff et al. 2004. Whereas the latter describes the premises that underlie an Information System (IS) that is capable of ensuring a reliable and flexible emergency response, the present paper contributes to the research field by looking at the interrelations of the aforementioned premises. We take a System Dynamics approach and gain insights in the key determinants of IS Capability by highlighting the mutual interdependences grouped around the concepts of adaptability, control, implicit knowledge and explicit knowledge.
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Delia Berrouard, Krisztina Cziner, & Adrian Boukalov. (2006). Emergency scenario user perspective in public safety communication systems. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 386–396). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: In the area of emergency response communication technologies, consideration of organization structure is critical in order to begin the understanding of user needs and optimize the development of effective technologies. User studies were carried out during the Wireless Deployable Network System European project-WIDENS. This paper discusses the information flow and spatial distribution of different European organizations involved in emergency response for various large-scale scenarios. The paper presents the operational view of emergency situation and related communication flows in several countries. Key results revealed that similarities exist in organizational roles, holding specific responsibilities in terms of location and task. Hierarchical arrangements and information flow may also be similar. However, difficulties lie in the efficient transmission of information due to slow information flow. Spatial distribution of personnel varies for scenarios. Future European studies are recommended for the advancement of our understanding of these newly addressed issues in public safety communication technologies and the needs of users in Europe.
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Tung Bui, & Siva Sankaran. (2006). Foundations for designing global emergency response systems (ERS). In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 72–81). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Works on Emergency Response Systems (ERS) tend to set aside-or discuss peripherally-the global nature of catastrophes and the unique conditions under which these systems have to operate. Major disasters either affect more than one country or require the help of more than one nation. Designing ERS to manage global crisis situations pose great challenges due to incompatible technologies, language and cultural differences, variations in knowledge-level and management styles of decision makers, and resource limitations in individual countries. In this paper, we outline theoretical foundations for designing global ERS. We develop a path model that identifies the elements and their interactions needed to ensure quality of outcomes and processes of emergency response. We also prescribe a Global Information Network (GIN) architecture to provide decision-makers with timely response to crises involving global intervention.
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Rebecca E. Carella, & Susan P. McGrath. (2006). ARTEMIS personal area networks for emergency remote triage and information management. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 592–597). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: The Automated Remote Triage and Emergency Management Information System (ARTEMIS) project seeks to provide situational awareness to all level of commands in order to increase patient survival rate during emergencies. By moving the burden of triage off of the medic and into an automated system, more time will be able to be spent on casualty care rather than assessment. Continual monitoring of responders and casualties will alert medics of critical changes in a patient's health that might normally have gone undetected after a patient is initially triaged. ARTEMIS employs a network of embedded sensors worn by responders and casualties to gather the data required for greater situational awareness and to relay the data back to appropriate levels of command both on the field and in remote locations.
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Sukumar Dwarkanath, & Michael Daconta. (2006). Emergency services enterprise framework: A service-oriented approach. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 298–304). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: The current Emergency Services landscape is characterized by a number of systems and networks that are isolated in nature, thus making information sharing impractical, if not impossible. Such an environment does not promote ease of information sharing, and each incident highlights the need for efficient collaboration and coordination, and the need for a holistic internetwork-a series of virtual interconnected networks-approach. In other words, it requires an overall framework that looks at safety as an overall enterprise, (albeit one with thousands of independent agency owners), with the strategic goal to facilitate greater collaboration and effectiveness of operations, and to ensure a streamlined and efficient prevention of, response to, and recovery from all-hazards. 1 Adopting a Service-Oriented enterprise approach is extremely useful and has number of advantages in such an environment. This paper defines a framework-in the context of an enterprise-an envisioned Emergency Services Enterprise Framework, and identifies the key elements of this framework.
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Noel Johnson, & Ann Fruhling. (2006). Development and assessment of the STATPack[TM] emergency response system. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 197–201). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: The STATPack is a telemedicine consultation and emergency response system which was developed to increase statewide laboratory responsiveness to public health emergencies. Although several emergency response management information systems have been created for diagnostic laboratories at the national level, most states in the U.S. do not have the capability to share critical public health microbiology laboratory information at local levels, especially in rural communities. This paper offers a description and preliminary assessment of the STATPack as it is being deployed by the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory and should be recognized as research in-progress. Initial experiences with this emergency response system have been encouraging.
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Manuel Llavador, Patricio Letelier, Carmen Penadés, José H. Canós-Cerdá, Marcos R. S. Borges, & Carlos Solís. (2006). Precise yet flexible specification of emergency resolution procedures. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 110–120). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Emergency Managers face a number of critical problems related to the compilation, validation, and use of Emergency Procedures. Traditional approaches do not provide enough expressiveness to accurately specify emergency procedures covering each possible scenario. As a result of this situation, Emergency Procedures are not as useful as they should be, neither in prevention nor during resolution of an emergency. In this work, we present an approach that merges two techniques to provide the broad expressiveness required when specifying Emergency Procedures. To represent sequences on actions performed by different participants we use workflow techniques. On the other hand, we use rules to represent available or mandatory actions according to the state of the system during the emergency. These rules are expressed in dynamic logic as the underlying formalism. Our approach provides more expressiveness and precision for the specification of Emergency Procedures, offering better conditions for their verification and validation. As a case study we have used part of a city subway Emergency Procedure.
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Andreas Meissner, Zhou Wang, Wolfgang Putz, & Jan Grimmer. (2006). MIKoBOS-a mobile information and communication system for emergency response. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 92–101). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: The role of communication and information provision in coping with natural and man-made disasters and emergency situations is becoming increasingly important. In this paper we present an integrated mobile information and communication system, MIKoBOS, for emergency response operations that enables reliable data communication within the emergency site as well as between the site and the headquarters. It provides the responsible personnel involved in the emergency operation at different levels with anytime-anywhere access to relevant information. Compared to traditional voice-dominated approaches, the proposed system can greatly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of communication and coordination during disaster relief operations. Promising experimental performance results are provided for use with a number of terrestrial and satellite networks.
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Niels Netten, & Maarten Van Someren. (2006). Automated support for dynamic information distribution in incident management. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 230–237). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: For all emergency response personnel involved in crisis situations it is essential to timely acquire all information critical to their task performance. However, in practice errors occur in the distribution of information between these collaborating actors leading to mistakes and subsequently more damage to the situation. In this paper we present a prototype system for dynamic information distribution able to support the information flow between collaborating crisis actors. The system has been evaluated by means of simulated experiments that use data from a real incident scenario. The results indicate that automated support by means of Machine Learning method works well. Especially, when actor work context features are included, then the performance on selecting and distributing relevant information is high. Furthermore, actors acquire relevant information much faster making group communication much more efficient.
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Stephen Potter, Austin Tate, & Gerhard Wickler. (2006). Using I-X process panels as intelligent to-do lists for agent coordination in emergency response. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 272–281). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to describe the I-X system with its principal user interface, the I-X Process Panel, its underlying ontology, , and how this panel can be used as an intelligent to-do list that assists emergency responders in applying pre-defined standard operating procedures in different types of emergencies. In particular, multiple instances of I-X Process Panels can be used as a distributed system to coordinate the efforts of independent emergency responders as well as responders within the same organization. Furthermore, it can be used as an agent wrapper for other software systems such as web services to integrate these into the emergency response team as virtual members. The heart of the I-X system is an automated planner that can be used to synthesize courses of action or explore alternative options manually.
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Eli Rohn. (2006). Data integration potentiometer in DERMIS. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 326–333). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Dynamic Emergency Response Management Information Systems must integrate data from heterogeneous and autonomous resources. We propose a mathematically based approach for evaluating and quantifying the potential of a successful automatic integration between pairs of data resources. The integration potential, expressed as a percent, should influence assumptions and procedures of emergency response planners.
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Tim Schoenharl, Greg Madey, Gábor Szabó, & Albert-László Barabási. (2006). WIPER: A multi-agent system for emergency response. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 282–287). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: This paper describes the proposed WIPER system. WIPER is intended to provide emergency planners and responders with an integrated system that will help to detect possible emergencies, as well as to suggest and evaluate possible courses of action to deal with the emergency. The system is designed as a multi-agent system using web services and the service oriented architecture. Components of the system for detecting and mitigating emergency situations can be added and removed from the system as the need arises. WIPER is designed to evaluate potential plans of action using a series of GIS enabled Agent-Based simulations that are grounded on realtime data from cell phone network providers. The system relies on the DDDAS concept, the interactive use of partial aggregate and detailed realtime data to continuously update the system and allow emergency planners to stay updated on the situation. The interaction with the system is done using a web-based interface and is composed of several overlaid layers of information, allowing users rich detail and flexibility.
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Jiri Trnka, & Johan Jenvald. (2006). A real-time role-playing exercise as a methodology to support command and control research. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 559–568). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: In this paper, methodological issues in research and training of complex command and control structures in emergency management are addressed. In particular, a methodological approach combining real-time role-playing exercise, after action review and observations is presented. An explorative study-ALFA-05-utilizing this approach is described. A brief overview of methodological aspects of preparation and execution is given. Further, experience gained and methodological lessons learned are also discussed. Finally, real-time role-playing exercise in combination with other methods is suggested as a feasible method for researchers and exercise managers to tackle present and future command and control in complex settings, where interaction and communication are in focus. In addition, areas for further development of the real-time role-playing exercises as a research method are suggested.
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Rae Zimmerman, & Carlos E. Restrepo. (2006). Information technology (IT) and critical infrastructure interdependencies for emergency response. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 382–385). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Information technologies and other critical infrastructures are interconnected in ways that can lead to vulnerabilities in the ability of these infrastructures to perform during natural disasters and acts of terrorism either to reduce adverse consequences or provide needed emergency response services. This research applies and adapts a number of indicators of infrastructure interdependency based on the authors' earlier research to determine where weak points and strengths occur in the interconnections between infrastructure technology and other infrastructure support services such as electric power and transportation, and where weak points create vulnerability that can be improved for more effective response in emergencies.
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Hans Zimmermann. (2006). Availability of technologies versus capabilities of users. In M. T. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2006 – 3rd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 66–71). Newark, NJ: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: The regulatory environment is no longer the primary hindrance to the full application of telecommunications technology in the service of emergency response, disaster prevention and relief, and crisis management. Nowadays the restricting factor is the lack of knowledge about the capabilities, but also the limitations, of the multitude of specialized and of public communication systems. This paper will analyze the situation with the help of some practical examples and will recommend an interdisciplinary multi-stakeholder based approach to an educational concept for emergency and disaster telecommunications.
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Catherine Lowry Campbell, Bartel A. Van De Walle, & Fadi P. Deek. (2005). Asynchronous negotiation and collaboration of software requirements for an emergency response information system: An empirical investigation. In B. C. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2005 – 2nd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 5–11). Brussels: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Negotiation and collaboration during the requirements stage of the software engineering process are fundamental to developing successful software products. Groups of stakeholders work together to come to agreement on the most important requirements to be sent forward for implementation. Distributed software engineering is becoming the norm rather than the exception, yet the requirements elicitation and definition process is normally conducted face to face. This paper describes an empirical study to investigate the relationship between structured task and specified negotiation steps within an asynchronous environment. The results reveal that these structures can have a positive impact on solution quality but a negative impact on process satisfaction, although following a negotiation sequence and task structure can help asynchronous groups come to agreement faster. Details of the experimental procedures, statistical analysis, and discussion of the results of the experiment are presented, as are suggestions for improving this work and a plan for future research.
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Gary Eifried. (2005). A model describing a response to a terrorism incident. In B. C. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2005 – 2nd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 125–127). Brussels: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Understanding how the response to an incident of terrorism involving a Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) transpires is essential to understanding the necessary flow of information within that response. A model describing incident response functions overlaid on a realistic timeline is presented.
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Tim J. Grant. (2005). Integrating sensemaking and response using planning operator induction. In B. C. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2005 – 2nd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 89–96). Brussels: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Emergency response managers often try to prepare plans in advance of foreseeable crises. However, pre-prepared plans almost never fit the precise situation when an actual crisis arises. This paper focuses on what can be done once the plan has been found to be a mismatch with the actual situation, and particularly on sensemaking and its integration into generating a response to a crisis situation. This paper proposes planning operator induction as a suitable technique. The Air Traffic Control and military air defence situation over the continental US on September 11, 2001, serves as the illustrative application. Since the paper reports research in progress, it closes by outlining the additional functionality that will have to be added to the existing POI implementation to produce a sensemaking tool.
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Qing Gu, & David Mendonça. (2005). Patterns of group information-seeking in a simulated emergency response environment. In B. C. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2005 – 2nd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 109–116). Brussels: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: Groups in emergency response environment may be confronted with problems that cannot be solved by following predefined procedures. They must therefore engage in a collective search for relevant information, cooperating and collaborating as they move towards the deadline. Information technologies and expertise may help shape group information seeking and determine its effectiveness. By understanding how response personnel search for information in emergencies and extending the findings to determine demands on information systems, we may begin to understand how to support and train for skillful information seeking in emergency situations. Accordingly, this research evaluates the impact of decision support systems and member expertise on group information-seeking behavior in a simulated emergency response environment. The results of the evaluation are then used to identify how information technologies may further support information seeking in emergency response.
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Stephen E. Hannestad. (2005). Incident command system: A developing national standard of incident management in the U.S. In B. C. B. Van de Walle (Ed.), Proceedings of ISCRAM 2005 – 2nd International Conference on Information Systems for Crisis Response and Management (pp. 19–28). Brussels: Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium.
Abstract: This paper is a critical examination of the U.S. Incident Command System (“ICS”) as an organizational structure and information gathering tool for emergency management from the perspective of a career emergency management officer who became a graduate student in information management following 35 years of public service. In addition to examining the ICS, and assessing its current weaknesses in the area of information management, the paper proposes a low-cost, COTS approach to automating the ICS information gathering and dissemination process.
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