The role of earthquake information management systems (EIMSs) in reducing destruction: A comparative study of Japan, Turkey and Iran

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.

Citation

Ajami, S. and Fattahi, M. (2009), "The role of earthquake information management systems (EIMSs) in reducing destruction: A comparative study of Japan, Turkey and Iran", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 18 No. 2, pp. 150-161. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653560910953225