Effect of assessment processes on measuring homeland security capability

Abstract

The National Preparedness Goal directs that preparedness efforts for major events should be developed through a capability-based planning process. The ability to perform a valid and reliable capability assessment is necessary to guide proper allocation of resources in the capability-based planning process. Capability assessment is also necessary to validate and measure the impact of investments. This thesis examines a self-assessment methodology that may be used to perform capability assessment. The thesis employs a comparative case study methodology to examine process options that might be utilized to determine which process provides the most opportunity for data collection while fostering a collaborative environment that will provide opportunities for sharing knowledge among assessment group members. A review of the case studies suggest that the subject-matter experts employed in the analysis may not have the requisite knowledge to perform the assessment. This suggested finding implies problems with capability based planning efforts. The thesis makes recommendations for future strategies to perform homeland security capability assessments.