Domestic disasters and geospatial technology for the Defense Logistics Agency

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to analyze the use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). The report found four common areas for improvement in Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief response. This report explored how using a GIS in disaster response could alleviate these common problem areas. This report also used an optimization model to analyze DLA quantitative fuel distribution data. This report used Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) Spreadsheet Solver and Esri Maps for MicroSOFt Office to determine the optimal route each fuel truck should take to meet every location’s demand. Vehicle Routing Problem Spreadsheet Solver used GIS technology to identify the location or each demand location and the amount of time taken to travel from one location to another. When the model could not meet the total fuel demand, this report used Esri Maps for MicroSOFt Office to determine the next available truck to supply that location. This report concludes that GIS technology would significantly benefit DLA. This report also recommends that DLA use ArcGIS, since FEMA has already implemented the program into its disaster response. ArcGIS also provides an organization subscription service in which DLA personnel could collaborate easier with other disaster response agencies.