Rethinking Disasters: Finding Efficiencies Through Collaboration
Abstract
Disasters are highly inopportune and represent a convergence of complexities, including multiple layers of government, private and nonprofit organizations, and diverse populations. The complexity and unpredictability of disasters have been countered with structured management strategies. While an ordered environment has merit, perhaps the management of disasters is over-engineered. This can result in missed opportunities to capitalize on collaborative, decentralized solutions. This thesis evaluates the processes and procedures involved in responding to disasters by examining the current tiered-response model (i.e., local, state, federal) and exploring whether a nonlinear, adaptive approach could improve interagency collaboration and result in better resource utilization. The thesis creates a framework for dialogue about the complexities and hardships of disaster response. Using a formative program evaluation method, primary and secondary data analysis focuses on understanding the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, the effectiveness of resource deployment, and intergovernmental collaboration during disaster response. The thesis concludes with several recommendations for disaster response that are ranked based on political acceptability, economic plausibility, public perception, effectiveness, and appropriate utilization of resources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA574558
Entities
People
- Samantha C. Phillips
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School