iWILL+VISER: A Blueprint for a Decision-Making support system for Individuals and Emergency Agencies

Abstract

In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico’s vulnerability to catastrophic events highlighted the need for better preparedness and decision-making. This experience motivated the development of iWILL (Individual Wellness Inventory Level Log), a mobile application to help individuals make sound decisions during and after an emergency of such nature. The app enabled a user to: (i) monitor their wellness levels, (ii) account for loss of wellness in detrimental events and wellness gains through restorative actions, and (iii) consider three simple courses of action to follow in response to a detrimental event. Beyond the initial capabilities, it was clear that iWILL could help gather aggregated emergency information and transmit it to an information compiler to help emergency agencies allocate resources in a more precise manner. This second component was called VISER (Visual Information System for Emergencies and Resources), an online platform that offered reports of sets of iWILL users who shared information during and after a hurricane. Such integration creates a semi-dynamic feedback loop, between almost real-time challenges and precise resource allocation. The combination of iWILL+VISER holds promise as a potential tool to enhance community resilience and response efficiency during disasters in Puerto Rico.