Knowledge Reachback for WMD Events

This paper describes a conceptual model and set of tools for understanding and supporting knowledge reachback during weapons of mass destruction (WMD) events. The model and tool set are products of a case study and design research carried out with the defense threat reduction agency (DTRA), the United States government organization with primary responsibility for reduction of the global threat from WMDs. The conceptual model provides a useful abstraction for those working to support reachback in situations related to WMDs, emergency response, crisis management, and other complex domains. Development of the conceptual model is grounded in an analysis of WMD scenarios and the intense knowledge communication demands that arise from coordination of inter-organizational responses to these events. The conceptual model and scenario analysis suggest a number of approaches to supporting reachback with advanced information systems and technologies.