Daniel Bishop, GISP
GIS Project Manager
In the ever-evolving, ever-more-present landscape of emergency management, utilizing the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology has become a key resource for rapid and organized response. GIS provides an invaluable toolkit for efficiently handling critical elements in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. In this blog post, I will explore the key components of emergency management preparedness, discuss the advantages of transitioning from analog mapping to digital GIS solutions, and delve into the Esri Emergency Management Operations Solution as a powerful resource for agencies.
Effective emergency management hinges on several critical elements, including communication, coordination, resource management, planning, and community engagement. Communication, both within agencies and with stakeholders, plays a pivotal role. Coordinating efforts with external agencies is essential, as is managing limited resources efficiently. Perhaps the most challenging element is community communication, ensuring that vital information reaches the public during crises. A GIS solution deployment allows for web-based mapping products to be designed for multiple end users. Thus, allowing targeted messaging to key groups.
Moving from traditional analog mapping methods to digital GIS solutions is a game-changer in emergency management. Past analog techniques, such as wall maps with dry-erase marker editing, have limitations in terms of real-time data updates and communication across multiple stakeholder groups. Embracing readily available GIS technology empowers agencies to access accurate, up-to-date information from anywhere with an internet connection. It simplifies data sharing, enhances decision-making through data presentation, and facilitates community outreach. This is an incredible asset in emergency management. The biggest challenge is often trying a new technology. We’re here to help!
As a way of showcasing the out-of-box potential of these solutions, I’ll deploy the Esri Emergency Management Operations Solution
Esri has prepared an Emergency Management Operations Solution tailored to the unique needs of Emergency Management Agencies. The Esri solution overview describes its purpose as “to identify an emergency incident, allocate response resources, determine initial damages, and communicate status to various groups with the Emergency Operations Center (EOC).”
Upon deploying this solution, many features and products are instantly available. The products displayed here are only waiting for your area’s data to be plugged in. The Incident Status Dashboard and the Emergency Operations Hub Website are incredible starting templates, but they’re also completely configurable. There is a damage assessment Survey123 configurable form, several web maps, and a Public Information instant app. These are all available within ArcGIS Online and in ArcEnterprise, too.
The Incident Status Dashboard provides a real-time common operating picture, allowing agencies to visualize and summarize incident information swiftly. It enhances situational awareness, monitors resources, and streamlines decision-making during emergencies.
Survey123 for ArcGIS enables the creation of smart forms for capturing field data digitally. Field personnel can efficiently collect information, attach photos, and follow conditional branching based on data input. This tool enhances data accuracy and simplifies data collection during Damage Assessment operations.
Workforce for ArcGIS focuses on resource management, allowing agencies to assign tasks to field personnel with the right skills and equipment. It provides a map-based routing system for efficient task allocation.
Of course, adding data to the solution greatly enhances its usefulness. Cloudpoint can help you identify available data, create data when necessary, and load the data into the solution. If your organization uses ArcGIS Pro, then the Solution provides an Emergency Management Map project with tasks for a step-by-step data upload workflow.
The tangible benefits of adopting digital mapping are obvious, and the Esri Emergency Management Operations Solution makes getting started even less complicated. Every Agency should strive to improve response times, data accuracy, and communication in order to ultimately enhance their overall capabilities. GIS is a transforming technology that benefits emergency managers and citizens by providing efficient, real-time tools for handling critical elements, coordinating resources, and communicating with communities. I’ve used the Esri Emergency Management Operations Solution here to serve as an example of the utility a single solution can provide to agencies seeking to bolster their preparedness and response efforts. There are many other Esri-offered solutions available to assist your operations. I encourage you to look through them. By embracing GIS, agencies can strengthen their ability to protect and serve their communities during times of crisis. Contact Cloudpoint’s Public Safety team to discuss how we can help your organization.