Integrating information technology into international crisis management and policy

The rate and efficacy of organizational and interorganizational problem solving in complex, uncertain environments may be increased through structured information processes and appropriate uses of current information technology. This increased capacity for interorganizational problem solving may then be incorporated into policy and practice to increase the efficiency of international crisis management. The present analysis will, first, review briefly the major theoretical perspectives on organizational decision processes in uncertain environments and propose a rationale for continuing inquiry. Second, it will assess the characteristics, strengths and limitations of current information technology as a means of facilitating decision processes for practicing managers engaged in interorganizational disaster operations. Finally, it will examine the potential benefits, liabilities and requirements for integrating information technology into international crisis management and policy.