9- Randy Rask- New Trends in Community Informatics and Disaster Management

Randy Rask

Reference: 

Shankar, Kalpana (2008). Wind, Water, and Wi-Fi: New Trends in Community Informatics and Disaster Management. Information Society; Apr2008, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p116-120, 5p

Theme:  This article addresses how the use of social networks during disasters helps to mobilize the community and how a well-designed social network based around emergency management can assist citizens in being more prepared for emergencies. 

Summary:

-          In February of 2007, Ben Shneiderman and Jennifer Preece suggested that our nation needed an "Online 911".

-          They came to the determination that designing and deploying a system such as this would cost hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. 

-          What are some ways that citizens can be more in touch with emergency management so they can be more prepared for disasters?

-          Citizens have started to use end-user technologies to communicate during disasters.

-          These technologies need to be designed and deployed in a proper way to have the greatest impact during a crisis.

-          Disaster volunteers seem to be well connected in exchanging information during relief efforts but these technologies are not very useful in preparing for the next disaster. 

-          Community-based approached through social networks if done properly may very well prove to be effective in preparing for future disasters. 

-          These technologies can be used to recruit volunteers and communicate between different relief programs. 

-          Bottom line is that these technologies are a great advantage during disasters and can also be a great advantage in preparing for future disasters. 

 

Application to Lesson Topic:

 Social media technologies have been being used in disasters since they were discovered.  This article explains ways that these networks can become more effective in preparing for disasters.  It also addresses how relief agencies can stay informed with each other and how they can communicate with the citizens.  The article also shows us that the community needs to be more informed on emergency management and it addresses ways that social network technologies need to be designed to assist people with understanding this.

Application to Emergency Service:

Emergency Services is all about helping citizens in the best way possible.  I would have to say that the best way to help citizens in disasters is to prepare them for it.  Preparedness is key.  This article states that social networking, if designed correctly, can help people understand emergency preparedness and the operations involved.