Resilient Organisations Research ReportsISSN 1178-7260 (Print)
Post Disaster Reconstruction Research: An Industry UpdateDean Myburgh , Suzanne Wilkinson, Erica Seville
Resilience Management: A framework for assessing and improving the resilience of OrganisationsSonia McManus, Erica Seville, David Brunsdon, John Vargo
Building Organisational Resilience: A summary of key research findingsErica Seville, David Brunsdon, Andre Dantas, Jason Le Masurier, Suzanne
Wilkinson, John Vargo
Barriers to Post Disaster Reconstruction: Report on Workshop Jason Le Masurier, Suzanne Wilkinson
Information Sharing During Disasters: Can we do it better? Andre Dantas, Erica Seville and Alan Nicholson
International Reconstruction Experience: Study Tours to USA and Japan Jason Le Masurier
Journal and Conference PublicationsAbstracts from journal and conference publications by members the research team. Where possible, we have made available copies of the original papers with permission. If you are interested in something you see here please let us know.
Facilitated Process for Improving Organizational Resilience Natural Hazards Review, Volume 9, Issue 1, pp81-90. http://scitation.aip.org/dbt/dbt.jsp?KEY=NHREFO&Volume=9&Issue=2#P000081000001 Abstract: Resilient organizations contribute significantly to resilient communities. However, the task of building more resilient organizations is complicated by an inability to translate the concept of resilience into tangible working constructs for organizations. In addition, resilience is often considered to be a crisis or emergency management issue. The link between creating resilient day-to-day operations and having a resilient crisis response and recovery is typically not well understood by organizations. Resilience for organizations is found to have three principal attributes. Situation awareness, management of keystone vulnerabilities, and adaptive capacity. A facilitated process is introduced that assists organizations to enhance their performance in relation to these attributes. This process is called resilience management and was developed and tested with 10 case study organizations selected specifically to represent a wide range of industry sectors, business types, and sizes in New Zealand. Some of the preliminary resilience issues to arise from this study are also briefly discussed.
Proceedings of a Workshop on Emergency Management and Social Science Disaster
Research in New Zealand (Report PDF 0.5Mb) Bruce Glavovic, Kathryn Jones, David Johnston (editors)
Information Sharing During Emergency Response and Recovery: A framework for road organizations. Andre Dantas, Erica Seville, Dharmista Gohil Abstract: Road organizations are involved in a wide range of emergency response and recovery activities. Information sharing is a critical element in deploying road organization resources during such activities. This paper presents an information-sharing framework for road organizations. On the basis of a study of response and recovery activities, information needs were identified and a geographic information system—based information-sharing framework was created. The framework is applied to a desktop case study in the South Island of New Zealand to establish the magnitude of potential benefits. Results indicate that a reduction in time and cost of emergency response activities could be achieved if the conceptual framework was implemented through reduced response times, faster access to relevant information, and therefore enhanced decision making.
National Organisational Resilience Workshop: The Outcomes….(Report, PDF 147k) 5th to 7th December 2007 During 2007 industry representatives of Australia’s Trusted Information Sharing Network asked the Australian Government to support a national workshop to explore the concept of organisational resilience. This report summarises the issues discussed at the workshop. Already the results of this workshop are being discussed in the UK, New Zealand, Canada and the USA.
Resilience Management: A framework for evaluating and improving organisational resilience (Presentation PDF, 300k) Erica Seville, Sonia McManus, Dave Brunsdon, John Vargo Abstract: The ‘Resilient Organisations’ research programme in New Zealand is now three years into an overall six year programme to develop strategies for improving the resilience of organizations to major crises. This presentation will introduce a framework for Resilience Management that has been developed as part of this programme. Resilience Management brings together the concepts of risk management, business continuity planning and emergency management into a single holistic framework. We will explain several tools and techniques developed by the research team, including the use of generic consequence scenarios, vulnerability matrices, and the design of workshops for improving situation awareness and building adaptive capacity within an organization. The research has involved in-depth case studies of ten different organizations to understand their resilience profile, in terms of their situation awareness, keystone vulnerabilities and adaptive capacities. This presentation will provide an overview of fundamental resilience issues identified during these case studies, as well as reviewing how the Resilience Management framework was applied across a variety of different organizational types and market sectors. In this presentation we will also look forward to the next stages of the research programme, including an attempt to quantify and benchmark resilience across different organizations.
Building Shared Organisational Resilience: a New Zealand approach (Poster PDF, 1Mb) Erica Seville, Sonia McManus, Dave Brunsdon, John Vargo Abstract: This paper presents findings from a six-year research programme underway in New Zealand to develop strategies for improving the resilience of organisations to major crisis events. The research takes a systems view of organisations, recognising that there are multiple interdependencies within and between different organisations that influence their abilities to respond and recover. This means that effective resilience management for any one organisation must look beyond that single organisation and consider the resilience of other organisations that it depends on. Particular aspects of organisational resilience focused on by the research team include: how individual organisations are positioned to respond and recover from major crises; their ability to communicate and share information in order to direct resources effectively during crises; and the legal and contractual frameworks within which they will need to operate during crisis response and recovery. None of these issues can be resolved by a single organisation acting unilaterally. Organisations are required to work together towards system resilience. One of the most interesting challenges for the research team has been developing strategies for getting organisations to think more systemically about resilience issues, and to build commitment to addressing issues which are a shared responsibility. Various strategies have been used during the research to develop this awareness of shared resilience. At an individual organisation level, the introduction of a 5-step process for improving organisational resilience has been very effective for highlighting critical dependencies on other organisations (such as along supply chains) and the need to develop strategies for managing resilience across organisational boundaries. At a sector level, the research team have been working closely with a cluster of organisations that together manage an infrastructure network to understand how these organisations share and communicate with each other during crises and how those interactions might be enhanced to facilitate more effective shared decision-making. At an issue level, the research team have been working to bring together stakeholders from a variety of different sectors to discuss the vast and complex issue of post-disaster reconstruction. In New Zealand this issue has been debated many times, but resources and ownership for resolving issues is traditionally lacking. By bringing together key stakeholders to develop priorities for future effort according to both criticality and our abilities to develop and implement credible solutions it is hoped to reinvigorate this process. With New Zealand’s small size, we have an ideal environment for bringing together researchers and broad cross sections of industry to address issues that cross organisational boundaries. This paper will review the successes and ongoing challenges for these initiatives and key lessons that other countries might take from the New Zealand experience.
Jason Le Masurier,
James Olabode Rotimi,
Suzanne Wilkinson
Jason Le Masurier, James O.B. Rotimi and Suzanne Wilkinson Abstract: Legislation that applies to routine construction provides for the safe development of infrastructure, capital improvements and land use, ensuring preservation and environmental protection, however there is often little provision in legislation to facilitate reconstruction projects. Much existing legislation was not drafted to cope with an emergency situation and was not developed to operate under the conditions that will inevitably prevail in the aftermath of a severe disaster. If well articulated and implemented, the regulations should not only provide an effective means of reducing and containing vulnerabilities (disaster mitigation), but also a means of facilitating reconstruction projects. The purpose of this work is to examine how reconstruction differs from routine construction, focussing on the interrelated reconstruction challenges of allocation of responsibility for coordination, scarcity of resources and the application of legislation and regulations that were written for routine construction rather than post-disaster reconstruction. Case studies of reconstruction following recent small scale disasters in New Zealand are presented to support the points raised. Extrapolation of the main issues to larger scale disasters identifies some significant challenges which, if not addressed in advance, are likely to hinder the reconstruction process. The paper concludes that whilst routine construction processes have proved adequate for small-scale disasters, the greater degree of coordination required for programmes of reconstruction following a larger disaster has not been adequately addressed in policy and legislation.
The Regulatory Framework for Effective Post-Disaster Reconstruction in New Zealand (PDF, 68k) James O.B. Rotimi, Jason Le Masurier and Suzanne Wilkinson Abstract: New Zealand has extensive infrastructure networks and localised, dense urban populations that make it vulnerable to natural disasters. When they occur, the effects can be devastating on the natural and built environment. Organisations therefore need to be well prepared, rather than rely on a reactive recovery process after an event. As one aspect of a major programme of research in New Zealand, the authors address the recovery issue in terms of how the local legislative and regulatory frameworks either facilitate or hinder reconstruction projects and programmes. If well articulated and implemented, the regulations should not only provide an effective means of reducing and containing vulnerabilities (disaster mitigation), but also a means of facilitating reconstruction projects. This paper highlights the interrelated reconstruction challenges of allocation of responsibility for coordination, scarcity of resources and the application of legislation and regulations that were written for routine construction rather than post-disaster reconstruction. Examples of reconstruction following recent small scale disasters in New Zealand are presented to support the points raised. The paper concludes that whilst routine construction processes have proved adequate for small-scale disasters, the greater degree of coordination required for programmes of reconstruction following a larger disaster has not been adequately addressed in policy and legislation.
An Analysis of the Alliancing Procurement Method for Reconstruction Following an Earthquake (PDF, 81k) Dr. Jason Le Masurier, Dr. Suzanne Wilkinson, and Yana Shestakova Abstract: Reconstruction following an earthquake disaster requires a different response to ordinary construction. One of the key factors to consider is the development of a fast and efficient contractual framework for rebuilding following a disaster event. The objective of this paper is to explore the effectiveness of the alliancing system for the procurement of construction projects following such an event. The methodology for this research consists of analyzing international literature on the alliancing procurement system and then assessing this for usefulness following an earthquake. Comparisons of this system with more common procurement systems will be made. The paper will then discuss how the construction industry in New Zealand, and internationally, can facilitate the adoption of pre-disaster reconstruction procurement plans. This will include a discussion on what such a plan might include, with particular focus on the adoption of the alliancing system of procurement for reconstruction following an earthquake.
Organisational Issues in Implementing an Information Sharing
Framework: Lessons from the Matata Flooding Events in New Zealand. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/toc/jccm/14/1 Abstract: This paper presents a critical review and analysis of issues in implementing electronic data and information sharing frameworks for organisations involved in response activities during disaster. An implementation focused approach is used to understand end-user needs and develop tools that meet their operational requirements. A case study of New Zealand roading organisations examines how information is currently shared both within and between organisations to support crisis decision-making, and the potential benefits and implications of enhanced data and information sharing frameworks. Preliminary results show that considerable performance gains in response activities during disasters can be achieved provided technology is designed to work with and enhance existing operating structures.
Understanding the Vulnerability of Organisations (pdf, 76k) Erica Dalziell Abstract: The 1855 Wairarapa Earthquake was a significant event in the lives of the people affected. For many of them, it would have had a 360 degree impact; concern for the safety of family and friends; damage to homes and possessions; and disruption to shops and businesses affecting both livelihoods, and access to essential goods and services. It is the impact of major events, such as the 1855 Earthquake, on businesses that is the focus of this paper.
This paper can be downloaded for free at the NZSEE website Abstract: This report on the Sumatra-Andaman great earthquake and tsunami of December 26, 2004 describes the event and its impacts in southern Thailand. It includes the observations of the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering Reconnaissance Team gathered one month after the event. The report covers the effects of the tsunami on the natural and built environment, and the recovery process in relation to social and economic issues. Lessons applicable to the understanding and potential mitigation of tsunami risk in New Zealand are presented and discussed.
Improving Organisational Resilience Brunsdon, D. B., Dalziell, E. P. (2005). Abstract: Organizations play key roles within our society. It is organizations that manage, maintain and operate our infrastructure, create our economy, and provide employment and essential goods and services for our communities. The economic imperative to build businesses and organizations that are more resilient to hazards was clearly illustrated by the September 11th attacks, where business interruption losses far exceeded the sum of all property losses. An organization’s ability to respond effectively will depend, to a large degree, on their organizational structure, the management and operational systems they have in place, and the resilience of these. This paper will describe a six-year research program underway in New Zealand to evaluate the resilience of organizations to major events such as natural hazards and pandemics. The research includes ten in-depth case studies of different organizations to evaluate their vulnerability and adaptive capacity to unexpected events. In particular, we explore the context within which risk management decisions are made, and practical strategies for increasing organizational resilience.
Making Organisations Resilient: Understanding the Reality of the Challenge (pdf, 81k) Brunsdon, D. B., Dalziell, E. P. (2005). Abstract: Organisations play key roles within our society. They have the responsibility for managing, maintaining and operating our infrastructure, creating our economy, and providing employment and essential goods and services for our communities. An organisation’s ability to respond effectively to adverse events depends on their structure, the management and operational systems they have in place, and the collective resilience of these. New Zealand organisations have been through considerable structural change over the past two decades. This has occurred at all levels from central through to local government and the private sector. Some organisations have in fact been through several cycles of restructuring in the pursuit of different philosophies. This process has seen the evolution into smaller and more independent organisations and business units. Their focus on short-term economic efficiency has however had a detrimental effect in terms of planning to be resilient in the face of major emergency events. This paper provides a past/ present/ future perspective
of New Zealand by presenting reflections on the impacts of corporatisation
during the ‘80s and ‘90s, a view of the current situation
and suggestions on where future emphasis should be placed. The view
is expressed that relatively few organisations (public or private)
in New Zealand are currently making appropriate levels of commitment
and investment in the vital element of ‘readiness’ or
preparedness to respond to and recover from major emergency events.
In addition to highlighting the challenge that this situation represents,
some practical strategies for increasing organisational resilience
are suggested, along with key areas where greater resource commitment
should be made. The Development of a Contractual Framework for Disaster Reconstruction Abstract: Disaster reconstruction management requires a different response to ordinary construction. One of the key factors to consider is the development of a fast and efficient contractual framework, or procurement system, for rebuilding following a disaster event. The objective of this paper is to explore the most efficient construction framework for reconstruction following such an event. The methodology for this research consists assessing different procurement options commonly in use for current effectiveness and then using this data to suggest the most suitable framework for use both locally in New Zealand and internationally for any given disaster event. The results will show how the current common procurement frameworks in use can assist with post-disaster reconstruction.
Opportunities, Barriers and Challenges for Implementing Electronic Data and Information Sharing Frameworks in Organisational Response to Natural Disasters. Dr. André Dantas, Dr. Erica Dalziell. (2005) Abstract: Response activities to natural disasters involve several organizations collecting, processing and sharing data and information that support resource allocations to minimize societal and economic damages. In order to act in a coordinate and efficient way, organizations require access to data and information characterizing the natural disaster’s intensity, location and related damages as well as the availability of human and physical resources. Data and information can be originated from multiple organizations that are ultimately shared and made available to coordinating authorities such as the Civil Defence. Furthermore, intra-organizational exchange of data and information can be observed as several layers of responsibilities and territorial jurisdiction are interdependent in performing all levels of activities such as asset planning, management, maintenance and operation. Through inter and intra organizational exchange and sharing of data and information decisions are made and implemented resulting in the mobilization of personnel and equipment accordingly to assessed needs and priorities. This paper presents a critical review and analysis of issues in implementing electronic data and information sharing frameworks in organizations involved in response activities during natural disasters. Based upon the examination of the scientific literature and recent natural disaster response reports as well as the latest technological advances, opportunities, barriers and challenges are identified and discussed. These are used in a New Zealand case study in which the implementation of an electronic data and information sharing framework in a roading authority organization is examined. This case study concentrates in presenting the process and the steps taken to conceive the electronic data and information framework and to involve the roading authority organizations as well as the preliminary results that have shown considerable performance gains in response activities during natural disasters. A major outcome of this research work is that perceived barriers can be reduced if technology is employed according to organizations’ needs rather than the other way around. This is possible by involving end-users during all development stages of the electronic data and information sharing frameworks. Gohil, D., Dantas, A., Dalziell, E. (2005) A data-information sharing framework for roading organizations’ response to a natural disaster, 7th Asia-Pacific ITS forum & exibition, Delhi, India. http://www.itsindia.org/ap2005/
A data-information sharing framework for roading organizations’ response to a natural disaster. Dharmista Gohil, André Dantas, Erica Dalziell (2005) Abstract: After a natural disaster strikes, roading organisations need to efficiently respond in order minimize the damage to society (Gordan et al, 1998). Roading authorities (Department of Transport, Consultants, Contractors, etc) involved in the maintenance and operation of roading assets have to respond in a coordinated fashion both within themselves and with other lifeline organizations. Data and information sharing within roading organizations is crucial for a coordinated response to a natural disaster to make an accurate decision on the action to be taken. At all response stages, data and information will affect the quality and reliability of the decisions taken, because the more the involved parties know about the damage situation and resources the more they will be able to accurately and efficiently respond (Briton, 2004). Also, the sharing of the data and information will play a considerable role in order to keep all informed about the latest development at each response stages. Although the importance of data and information sharing during disaster is widely acknowledged, current practices and techniques presents considerable limitations in providing tools that fulfil emergency management practitioners. On one hand, many scholars have demonstrated that information gathering and processing during disaster may affect the efficiency of response and recovery activities, but very limited efforts have been observed in order to face this problem. On the other hand, technological advances in information management of spatial-temporal data such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) have been made in recent years, but they cannot be applied as conceived. This is mainly because of the special and dynamic requirements during response activities to natural disasters. This paper presents the development and application of a data-information sharing framework for roading organizations’ response to a natural disaster. Using a Geographical Information System (GIS), a standardized neutral structure for data and information sharing is conceived to provide assessment of damages, resource availability, treatment options, cost and time spent to resume normal activities. Authorities will use this framework in a coordinated fashion to efficiently respond to damages caused by natural disasters. This paper is divided into five sections. After this introduction, the roading organisations emergency management context in New Zealand is presented. Third section describes the conceptual data/information sharing framework. A case study in which the framework is applied in New Zealand is presented in the fourth section. Finally, the fifth section presents the conclusions.
Resilience, Vulnerability and Adaptive Capacity: Implications for Systems Performance (pdf 189k) Dalziell, E. P., McManus, S. T. (2004). Abstract: As our infrastructure and organisations become ever more networked and interdependent there is a growing need to focus on managing overall system risk. In particular, there is a need to focus not only on the vulnerability of our systems to failure, but also on our ability to manage and minimise the impact of any failures. This raises some interesting concepts in terms of how we might design systems to be more resilient to change. For example, the traditional engineering approach had been to design systems that are less vulnerable to damage from hazard events. However system resilience can also be enhanced by increasing the adaptive capacity of the system, either through ensuring the system design includes enough redundancy to provide continuity of function, or through increasing the ability and speed of the system to evolve and adapt to new situations as they arise. This paper discusses the particular challenges for evaluating the resilience of organisations to major hazard events.
Student Research ReportsStrategies for Managing Business Vulnerability to Electricity Failure (pdf, 804k) Hannan Stephenson, March 2007.
Banda Aceh Fieldtrip Report (pdf, 350K) Kelvin Zuo, August 2006.
Greymouth March 10th Tornado 2005: An investigation of the effects and subsequent response and recovery process Kristen MacAskill. 3rd Professional Year Project. Student Research Report 2005/01. (1.5 Mb)
Development of Tsunami Information Boards for Installation at Public Beaches Lisa Woods, 3rd Professional Year Project. Student Research Report 2005/02. (1.7 Mb)
Post-Disaster Reconstruction: New Zealand Jetske van der Zon, Netherlands Exchange Student.
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