What Have We Learned since September 11, 2001? A Network Study of the Boston Marathon Bombings Response

    Authors

    Q. Hu; C. C. Knox;N. Kapucu

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Public Adm. Rev.

    Keywords

    LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT; WORLD-TRADE-CENTER; CRISIS MANAGEMENT; CATASTROPHIC DISASTERS; EXTREME EVENTS; GOVERNMENT; COORDINATION; COLLABORATION; COMMUNICATION; PREPAREDNESS; Public Administration

    Abstract

    In light of recent disasters, it is evident that more research is needed to understand how organizations can effectively coordinate disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts. This research assesses the effectiveness of interorganizational coordination and collaboration in response to the Boston Marathon bombings. After reviewing the major changes in federal emergency management policies and frameworks since September 11, 2001, this article applies a social network analysis to compare the disaster response networks embodied in formal disaster preparedness plans with the actual response networks. Data come from content analyses of the Boston Emergency Operations Plan, national and local newspaper articles, after-action reports, and situation reports. The timely response to the bombings is attributable to long-term institutionalized planning efforts; multiple platforms established for frequent interorganizational interactions through formal plans, training, and exercises prior to disasters; and an integrated communication system.

    Journal Title

    Public Administration Review

    Volume

    74

    Issue/Number

    6

    Publication Date

    1-1-2014

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    698

    Last Page

    712

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000344614600006

    ISSN

    0033-3352

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