Designing a multimedia platform for emergency management

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe research, the objective of which was the development of models, methodologies, and tools for the realization of the multimedia platform for emergency management in technological systems. Design/methodology/approach - This objective was achieved through the operationalization of the following major tasks: the theoretical research on the specific characteristics of emergency management system structure and processes; definition of educational structures, processes, and subjects for emergency management; development of models and software tools for the analysis of emergency development; development of information (web) services to support the collaborative decision making. Findings - A model of multimedia platform for emergency management in technological systems has been developed, which defines emergency services with appropriate information infrastructure, the structure and characteristics of the interoperability system and their mutual communication. Research limitations/implications - Further research should result in: the concrete structure and processes of virtual organisation for emergency management in technological systems; software for the support of collaborative decision making; models for emergency management education and training based on multimedia technologies. The limitations are primarily related to model implementation, since there are no suitable emergency databases. Practical implications - The platform can be used by: industrial companies, companies that provide building maintenance, public services, insurance companies, educational institutions, local authorities (by an adequate upgrade of models and software). Originality/value - This paper presents the information flow identified in emergency management and the structure of a multimedia platform which, by creating favourable environment for collaborative decision making, enables effective and efficient emergency management in technological systems, as well as emergency management education and training. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.