Knowledge management for emergency preparedness: An action research study

This is an information systems (IS) related study that examines the role of knowledge management systems in the context of emergency preparedness at Claremont University Consortium (CUC). The researcher used action research methodology to conduct his study.; The researcher's intention was to assist CUC in resolving some of its emergency preparedness issues. Specifically, this study was conducted to achieve three objectives: (1) Design and implement a web-based knowledge management system for CUC to enhance its emergency preparedness efforts. (2) Understand and apply existing theories and frameworks in knowledge management and systems design to guide the design decisions for the proposed system. (3) Evaluate the effectiveness of this system in assisting CUC in emergency preparedness.; These objectives required the researcher's direct involvement with CUC. Canonical action research methodology was used to guide the project. Five phases were involved in this project: problem diagnosis; action planning; intervention; evaluation; and specification of learning outcomes. The researcher used several methods to collect data throughout the five phases of the project. Data were analyzed (within the relevant project phases) using both qualitative and quantitative techniques.; Overall, the client (CUC) was satisfied with the project's outcome. The researcher designed and implemented an instantiation of a web-based knowledge management system. Wiki technology was used. This system can assist CUC in overcoming some of its immediate concerns with emergency preparedness. These include the ability of the system to: (1) Facilitate the communication process both before and during an emergency. (2) Enable a more structured approach for documenting and storing emergency related information, (3) Enhance the overall coordination process between CUC and its immediate constituents with regard to emergency preparedness activities.; The researcher concludes by stating that the system as it exists today is subject to further improvement. More work can and needs to be done before the value of the system is maximized in light of emergency preparedness at CUC (and within the Claremont Colleges at large). This includes the need for continuous training with the system, improving the navigational aspects, and seeking a better "fit" between the system and the emergency planning and response processes.