Begin: Operations Research in Disaster Risk Management

I have joined a research group here in the Ateneo, and we are focusing on (1) operations research and (2) disaster risk management. Basically, we will look into how management science can contribute to management of disaster relief operations.

Some definitions:

Operations Research -  as defined by the European Operations Research Societies is "the scientific approach to the solution of problems in the management of complex systems". (Altay and Green, 2006)

Disaster Operations - "the set of activities that are performed before, during and after a disaster with the goal of preventing loss of human life, reducing impact in economy and returning to a state of normalcy". (Altay and Green, 2006)

I am quite excited with this research area as it is something of great relevance here in the Philippines! Also, I think I can bring in contributions based on my knowledge in project management and risk management.

I have a lot to read though, specially to catch up with my colleagues on Operations Research and System Dynamics!

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References: Altay, N., & Green, W. G. (2006). OR/MS research in disaster operations management. European Journal of Operational Research, 175(1), 475–493.

Results, Outputs, Outcomes and Impacts

In the UNDP context, both (1) outputs at (2) outcomes are considered as results.

Outputs emerge from processing inputs through the completion of UNDP activities; they are usually specific products or services (i.e. number of people trained, number of studies completed).

Outcomes follow outputs; they are the intended development changes that UNDP seek to support. Note however, outcomes must not be tied directly only to UNDP, as a sum of UNDP outputs does not necessarily equate to development outcomes. Involvement of different and multiple parties cannot be discounted in the contribution of outcomes. Examples of outcomes would be jobs created and incomes increased.

Impacts are improved long term conditions at national level. (i.e. health, longevity)

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UNDP (2002) Result Based Management: Concept and Methodology
Link: http://www.undp.org/evaluation/documents/RBMConceptsMethodgyjuly2002.pdf