Information Diffusion among Agents: Implications for Humanitarian Operations

Authored by Nezih Altay, Raktim Pal

Date Published: 2014-06

DOI: 10.1111/poms.12102

Sponsors: College of Business, James Madison University

Platforms: NetLogo

Model Documentation: Other Narrative Flow charts

Model Code URLs: Model code not found

Abstract

The basis for this article is an information-processing view of the UN's cluster approach. We use agent-based modeling and simulations to show that clusters, if properly utilized, encourage better information flow and thus facilitate effective response to disasters. The article intends to turn the attention of the humanitarian community to the importance of sharing information and the role of cluster leads in facilitating humanitarian aid. Our results indicate that if cluster leads act as information hubs, information reaches its target faster, enabling a prompt humanitarian response. In addition, we show that information quality is critical for effective resource utilization-if cluster leads filter information, it moves faster. We also found evidence that the willingness to exchange information plays a larger role in transmitting information than that of an information hub, particularly during later stages of response operations.

Tags

information flows coordination cluster approach disaster response humanitarian logistics