The Use of Geographical Information Systems in the Eastern United States Emergency Management Organizations, From a Public Administration Perspective

This phenomenological study explored the use of Geographical Information System (GIS) technology in federal, state, and local government emergency management organizations. Using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the research focused on understanding local governments' perceptions of GIS access. The study theorizes that GIS is underutilized by local government emergency management due to cost, perceived limited benefits, data security concerns, and lack of experience. The central question is: How do public administration professionals perceive the value and benefits of GIS in emergency management? The study involved interviews, focus groups, and writing prompts with emergency management officials from the eastern U.S. The collected data were analyzed using Moustakas's modified Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen method to identify themes related to the underuse of GIS. The findings supported the TAM framework, emphasizing the significance of perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU) on the use and adaptation of GIS by federal, state, and local emergency management organizations. The results highlight the need for improved policy, funding, and education on GIS technology, specifically in emergency management. Findings also revealed that while federal and state organizations have robust GIS resources, local governments often lack the necessary policies, training, and understanding to use or request GIS support effectively.