Exploring the roles and challenges of disruptive technologies for emergency management in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

This work-in-progress paper presents preliminary findings from an exploratory workshop on disruptive technologies in emergency management in Aotearoa New Zealand. Thematic analysis identified three main themes on the role of disruptive technologies: (1) creating a common operating picture, (2) enhancing interaction, and (3) organising information. Despite the transformative potential of disruptive technologies, there are several challenges, including reliability and consistency of information, managing large volumes of data, integration and interoperability, and security and privacy concerns over data usage, among others. The study highlights the need for robust collaboration and resource-sharing mechanisms to leverage disruptive technologies in New Zealand’s emergency management landscape. Future work will investigate these identified themes through additional interviews and workshops involving emergency management professionals. Further focus will examine the preliminary findings to the broader concept of situational awareness in emergency contexts.