Potential for Local Government Entities to Use Mobile Devices to Record, Assess, Maintain, Utilize and Protect Their Municipal Infrastructure and Improve Their Disaster Management Capacity

Abstract

This paper discusses the findings from case studies of three organisations and their approach to the management of their fire hydrants. The purpose of the paper is to discuss the scope for better utilization and management of municipal infrastructure through the use of mobile devices for field data collection and the deployment of an intelligent incident management portal to benefit fire services and disaster management capacity. The study found that deploying mobile devices for field teams in conjunction with a web-based information management system would be considered useful. Although there is currently little technology in place especially web-based and mobile technology, there was an excitement and acceptance by the managers interviewed that such technology would improve current practice, especially with respect to information availability on critical facilities and the improved operational preparedness and capacity for disaster management. The key research contribution of this article includes an analysis of the data collection practise, information needs of first responders, development of a collaborative platform and process for supporting asset management and preparedness and emergency response. Also the demonstration of the data requirements and information sharing processes, in realistic disaster scenarios, and implementation and validation of the prototype system to demonstrate the concepts.