Using a Public Safety Radio Network for Information Negotiation between the Three-Tiered Command and Control Structure

Abstract

Multi-organizational emergency operations require effective information sharing. Existing information management tools supporting a common operational picture mainly convey factual information. However, a growing body of literature recognizes the importance of sharing interpretations and implications among the involved stakeholders for building a common situational understanding. This study aims to identify information that must be negotiated across the strategic, tactical, and operational command and control structures (C2S) for developing common situational understanding. Based on 33 interviews and a survey of emergency management stakeholders, information elements on the semantic and pragmatic levels are identified. Further, the results suggest how to use a secure radio network for facilitating information sharing so that the involved organizations can monitor and negotiate important information. These insights provide important lessons for improving information sharing in the emergency management domain.