Journal of Computer Science
and Information Technology

Integrated Risk Components in Data Modeling for Risk Databases
Washington Okori, Joseph Obua

Abstract
This study examined the suitability of elements such as terms, models and databases necessary in the development of suitable risk models. The elements are applicable at all stages of disaster intervention as preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery. For each of the stages cross-sectoral integration of information is applied in understanding the short and long term impact of a particular disaster. Integration enhances the ability of disaster managers to appropriately analyze risks, develop baseline risk profile and make better informed decision before and after disasters. The need to build risk databases based on appropriate data modeling procedure that includes conceptual data models, logical data models and the required data needed is corroborated in this study. Data model focuses on “real-world” representation of data as seen by users. Entity- Relationship methodology was applied since it takes less time to design, provides better quality of design and the design is easy to understand. The entities found to be of interest in the disaster risk model are hazard, exposure, vulnerability and loss. It is recommended that there should be integration within each of the elements such as terms, models and databases to ensure that countries are well equipped with high quality data and information to anticipate and avert disasters such as flood. The data model should be well structured with the aim of improving performance of the system to enhance timely information retrieval.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jcsit.v5n1a2