Archive for April, 2013
Projection Completion: Reflection
The postincludes a summary ofthe project achievements.
Beginning the project, we were confused as to what we were meant to do. After meeting our client and numerous group meetings, the scope of our project was much more clear and we began work.
Although this was a daunting and time-extensive project, we were proud that we were able to make a real difference in the community.
Our project is meant to give a basis for research and aid further future research done by NSEMO in the development of their rapid damage assessment plan (RDA). We looked into RDA plans and associations already in place in other regions, and rather than starting from ground zero, indentified sections from these materials that may relate and be of value to NSEMO.
Furthermore, we looked for ways in which resources, both skilled professionals and perishables may be used more effectively during emergencies. We researched and analyized the implications of public education regarding RDA, and possible simplifications in the program.
We looked into public communication during these emergencies, and issues that may arise during the actual event itself. We looked at legal liabilities and issues regarding volunteering and contractual engineering work during these emergencies. We looked at the development and need of RDA courses, both for instructors and for those who would be performing the evaluation.
During the project, we learned a lot about planning and implementation in the engineering world. We met and communicated with many professionals, engineers or others, and learned about the complexities and timeline of implementing projects in the real world. We learned about the numerous unexpected and unintended delays that can occur during projects, and the steps taken to eliminate or prevent as many of these from occurring. A big aspect of our project was the affect that it would have towards residents and stake holders such as businesses and government entities in the North Shore – we learned to consider the “big picture” when progressing in our work.
We prepared a confidential report and presentation, and delivered the report as well as presented to NSEMO at North Vancouver on April 3.
We also poster outlining some of our work for the UBC Poster fair discussed in an earlier post.
R.D.A. Group poster for CIVL 202, march 2013