A system engineering study and concept development for a Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief Operations Management Platform

Abstract

This thesis develops a concept and initial system definition of a Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) Operations Management Platform (OMP) that supports various stakeholders involved in time critical humanitarian response efforts. The concept for the OMP explores the various functions necessary to manage HADR operations to include facilitation of information exchange, collaboration among disaster responders, and a common operating picture (COP) that informs decision makers of the operational environment. The development of the OMP uses system engineering methodologies and a tailored development process to identify the requirements, functions, and architecture necessary to support the platform. The OMP concept also includes multiple data sources for near real-time information and support tools for assessments, planning, implementation, execution, and evaluation. This thesis also assesses advances in technology and applications to more effectively support and manage HADR efforts. As such, the OMP takes into consideration how current HADR operations are conducted today, and the role of virtual volunteers in supporting the platform. These virtual volunteers support the HADR effort by conducting tasks virtually via their computers and an internet connection anywhere in the world.