Determinants of collaboration between digital volunteer networks and formal response organizations in catastrophic disasters

Abstract

Purpose When catastrophic disasters recently occurred, digital volunteer networks formed by the public emerged across the globe. They aggregated, analyzed and visualized disaster data. Those volunteer networks sometimes shared their data with formal response organizations. Such data sharing and integration increased the capacity of formal response organizations for dealing with disasters. However, despite the emergence and contributions of digital volunteer networks, the literature has been focused primarily on the role of formal response organizations such as emergency management agencies and the Red Cross. The purpose of this paper is to describe how technical and organizational factors influence collaboration between digital volunteer networks and formal response organizations. Design/methodology/approach This research employs a case study method, focusing on the 2015 Nepal earthquake. Findings This study found that information technology and a shared understanding of disaster situations and how to address disasters are key determinants of collaboration between digital volunteer networks and formal response organizations. Originality/value This research is expected to contribute to building an integrated emergency response system in the information age.