Evaluation of Gaps to Understand Needs for HA/DR: A Case for USMC Readiness Metrics

Abstract

The primary goal of this research is to identify and evaluate gaps to understand the need for defining and developing readiness metrics for the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in information/knowledge management (I/KM) and needs assessments (NA). The primary research question is: How can the USMC better complete NA and I/KM activities in support of humanitarian operations? Research methods included education from formal training courses, a review of relevant literature, analysis of four historical case studies from 2010 to 2015, and personal interviews with prominent members in the field. This research examines USMC-unique capabilities to explain how the USMC can best fulfill its role, within the frameworks established by humanitarian organizations, in the most efficient and effective manner. We offer specific refinements to guide Marines in future planning of NA and I/KM efforts. In applying these refinements, Marine planners must tailor traditional practices with a shift in perspective from militant to humanitarian, wherein the USMC will serve as a supporting effort within a much larger international response. No two humanitarian responses can be the same; nevertheless, the well-grounded findings of this research related to NA and I/KM offer a basis of understanding for USMC planners to apply in any foreign natural HA/DR setting.