Little details that make a difference: A value-based approach to disaster management

Abstract

Even the most prepared organisations are likely to be severely affected during an incident if they fail to recall certain little details. Little details bridge the gap between expected and real future scenarios. They are crucial for the management of natural and man-made disasters and can be considered enablers of success. The existing literature focuses extensively on major aspects of disaster management, including mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery, while paying less attention to other details that can contribute positively to the overall success of the disaster and emergency management process. This study aims at: (1) identifying little details that make a positive difference in the event of a disaster; (2) investigating the value of these details to overall disaster and emergency management; and (3) introducing a value-based approach to disaster and emergency management.