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01. Challenge
Connecting Fragmented Systems and Interoperability Gaps in the Field
Tornadoes in the large metropolitan area exposed severe operational vulnerabilities within the region's distributed disaster response framework. Because there was no standardized operational guide connecting diverse Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COADs) with the Regional Coalition of COADs, response units suffered from duplicated field efforts, blurry lines of authority, and delayed asset deployment during initial high-stress response windows.
02. Solution
Developing Standardized Guides and Conducted HSEEP Testing
Our team addressed these structural silos by designing and authoring a clear, comprehensive COAD Emergency Operations Guide alongside an integrated Incident Response Plan to codify how nonprofit partners wire into formal regional emergency management systems. To solidify this framework, we built a Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) schedule, running regional leaders through two complex Tabletop Exercises (TTXs) and a high-fidelity Capstone Functional Exercise (FE).
03. Impact
Transitioning to a Validated Network for Rapid, Synchronized Aid
Our collaborative process transitioned the bi-state area into an interconnected, highly cooperative disaster network. By stress-testing communication and activation pathways during the capstone functional exercise, we proved that regional teams can execute field deployments in complete unison. This establishes a repeatable, highly scalable model that dramatically quickens life-saving service delivery and provides a durable foundation for community recovery.
3
Table-Top & Functional Exercises Deployed
20+
Regional Stakeholders Represented
60+
Table-Top Participants
2.81M
Residents Covered by Response Framework
All photos on this site were taken by our creative lead, Rashaun Parks.
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