The IT Challenges in Disaster Relief: What We Learned From Hurricane Harvey

Abstract

This article explores the information systems involved in disaster relief supply chain for Hurricane Harvey survivors. We interviewed three organizations, the United Way, the BakerRipley, and the American Red Cross, on how information systems were used in this concerted effort of long-term recovery. We found that data sharing is the major challenge, and it is further constrained and complicated by legal concerns. We also observed that organizations used ad hoc technology solutions to accommodate different relief project needs; an integrated open-source system would not only save cost but also improve the overall productivity.