RE-PLAN: a computational framework for REsponse PLan ANalysis

Lurking pandemics and ever-present bio-terror threats necessitate the design of contingency plans that address these bio-emergencies. Continuous changes in regional demographics and transportation infrastructure imply that response plans are not static, but undergo frequent revisions. These plans outline specific response scenarios attempting to meet federal mandated performance criteria. However, there are only few computational tools available that can aid in the analysis of response plan performance. REsponse PLan ANalyser (RE-PLAN), a computational framework with GIS capabilities, facilitates the analysis of response plans and their corresponding placement of resources. This paper introduces the RE-PLAN architecture and its underlying methodologies. The principles of plan analysis are demonstrated by applying RE-PLAN to a synthetically generated geographic region and the results of each analysis step are shown.