4 Steps of Emergency Management Improvement Process Are Critical to Readiness
By Russ Henderson, Research Director
A robust improvement process is a cornerstone of a utility’s commitment to continuous learning and operational resilience. This critical process ensures that valuable lessons from real-world events and exercises are not merely observed but rigorously captured, analyzed, and translated into specific, actionable changes. A well-functioning improvement process closes the loop from post-incident observation to proactive preparation, empowering the Incident Management Team (IMT) and the broader organization to elevate performance with each successive challenge.
Essential stages for an effective improvement process include the following:
- Conduct Prompt Hot Washes: Facilitate structured debriefs immediately after an event to capture fresh, candid observations across all IMT functions.
- Craft Comprehensive After Action Reports (AARs): Systematically collect input from a broad range of IMT participants and departments, summarizing key observations to form the foundation for corrective action.
- Develop SMART Improvement Action Items: Translate feedback into Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) actions to ensure clear objectives and accountability.
- Execute the Improvement Plan with Rigor: Assign clear ownership, diligently track progress, and apply formal change management principles. Integrate follow-through into regular IMT meetings to ensure consistent completion.
When executed consistently, the improvement process transforms insights from past experiences into concrete readiness for the future.
Current Emergency Management Leadership Council members can read and download Guideline 3: Structured for Success: Enhancing IMT Engagement and Accountability.
To learn more about the Emergency Management Leadership Council, please contact Tim Herrick.
