Deploying Modern Technology for Disaster Management Practitioners

Abstract

The rapid evolution of modern technology with access to enormous amounts of data has created a new set of problems and challenges for emergency management practitioners and mission managers. “Keeping up” with the continuous development of new technologies (drones, sensors, location intelligence, artificial intelligence, IOT, GIS, etc.) emphasizes the importance of technology that is open, interoperable, and can expand and integrate with new technology innovations. Adding to the challenge is assuring an organization has the capacity to manage, use, and provide the required information products for decision-makers when, where, and how they need them. Implementing technology without a comprehensive analysis of key mission requirements, personnel capability, and standard operating procedures (exactly how technology will be used) can create disruption and frustration. Newer technology capabilities may be interesting but not necessary to support the organization’s primary mission. If new technology is appropriate, it should be deployed with updated policy and procedures to be effective. This chapter will examine common technology deployment shortfalls and what’s required to overcome them to implement technology that supports emergency management practitioners and decision-makers.