The Role of Earthquake Information Management Systems (Eimss) in Reducing Destruction: A Comparative Study of Japan, Turkey and Iran Publisher



Ajami S¹ ; Fattahi M² Show Affiliations
Source: Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal Published:2009

Abstract

Purpose - The daily life of people is threatened by natural disasters. Crisis management is that in which attempts are made to before, during and after disasters. The most important factor for a manager to be able to overcome a crisis depends on his/her readiness before it. The main objective of this study was determining an earthquake information management system (EIMS) in Japan, Turkey and Iran and describing how it can reduce destruction by crisis management. Design/methodology/approach - This study was an analytical comparison in which data were collected by questionnaire, observation and checklist. The subject was the EIMS in selected countries. Sources of information were staff in related organizations, scientific documentation and the internet. To analyze the findings, criteria rating technique, Delphi technique, and descriptive method were used. Findings - Findings showed that the EIMSs in Japan, Turkey and Iran are decentralized. The EIMS is called Phoenix in Japan, and natural disaster management information system or AFAYBIS in Turkey. In Iran there was not a useful and efficient EIMS to evaluate earthquake information. According to outcomes, it is clear that an information system can only influence decisions if it is relevant, reliable and available for the decision-makers in a timely fashion. Therefore, it is necessary to reform and design a model. The model contains responsible organizations and their functions. Originality/value - This paper contains valuable information on EIMSs and their role in reducing destruction. Earthquakes Information systems Iran Japan Natural disasters Turkey. © 2009 Emerald Group Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.