Purpose of the DASF
The DIREKTION Assessment and Screening Framework (DASF) is a core method developed within the DIREKTION project to support a transparent and impartial screening and assessment processes.
The DASF Framework offers a step-by-step method to:
-
Identify and address capability gaps,
-
Implement systematic screening of technologies and solutions,
-
Set-up a roadmap
The DASF provides the basis for a sustainable process for research programming ensuring that responders and stakeholders have access to the most effective and up-to-date tools for disaster preparedness and response . The complete set is meant to be executed regularly. For instance, once a year or once every four years to get an updated insight in the most actual capability needs, capability gaps, potential solutions and to update regularly the roadmap for, for instance, EU or national research opportunities.
The DASF serves multiple functions within the project.
Capability Gap Identification
It provides a structured approach to identify gaps in disaster response capabilities, ensuring that the needs of first responders and disaster management professionals are understood and addressed.
Screening of Solutions
It evaluates the latest state-of-the-art technologies and solutions that are available to fill these gaps. This includes both high-TRL solutions that are ready for deployment and emerging technologies still under development.
Assessment of EU Horizon Projects
The framework assesses the outcomes of previous EU-funded projects in the DRS domain, helping to guide future research and investment in disaster resilience.
#1 - Initiation and Preparation (I&P)
In this phase, stakeholders are brought together to define the scope of the disaster management assessment. This step includes identifying the relevant disaster types, such as natural hazards (e.g., floods or wildfires) or man-made risks (e.g., cyberattacks or industrial accidents). A clear understanding of the disaster context is crucial for successful assessments in subsequent phases.
#2 - Needs and Gaps Assessment (NGA)
This phase focuses on identifying the capability gaps that hinder effective disaster response. The Needs and Gaps Assessment tool enables practitioners to assess their current capabilities and compare them against pre-defined disaster management standards. This process ensures that all critical gaps are identified, allowing for targeted interventions. For example, during a flood scenario, a capability gap might be identified in the interoperability of communication systems between emergency services in neighboring countries. The NGA tool helps visualize these gaps, providing a basis for further evaluation in the solution assessment phase.
#3 - Solution Assessment (SA)
In the Solution Assessment phase, the identified gaps are addressed by evaluating potential technological and operational solutions. This assessment covers various aspects such as the technology readiness level (TRL), feasibility, and potential impact of the solutions. For instance, a flood response team might assess an early warning system developed under a Horizon 2020 project. The SA tool provides a systematic way to evaluate the maturity and applicability of the solution, ensuring that only the most promising innovations are prioritized for implementation.
#4 - Roadmapping (RM)
The Roadmapping phase connects the results of the needs and gaps assessment and the solution assessment to long-term planning and policy development. This process supports EU institutions in aligning their future research and funding programs with the most critical disaster resilience needs. The roadmap helps ensure that solutions are not only identified but also scaled and sustained across multiple disaster contexts and regions.
The DASF Toolset
The DASF toolset consists of several core tools designed to simplify and systematize the assessment and screening process for disaster management. In addition to a user guide to support you through the assessment process. The toolset analysis is aligned with the latest EU priorities for disaster management, including the EU civil security taxonomy.
Capability Needs and Gaps Assessment Tool
A user-friendly tool that allows disaster management agencies to assess their current capabilities against standardized benchmarks.
Solution Assessment Tool
This tool evaluates the maturity, feasibility, and potential impact of solutions. It is based on established criteria such as TRLs and operational feasibility
Roadmapping Tool
This tool connects the assessed needs and solutions to future programming, offering a strategic path for capacity building.
Provide feedback
We invite you to read the deliverables and share your thoughts, suggestions, and feedback on the DIREKTION Assessment and Screening Framework and the accompanying toolset (please note that there is a form available to provide your feedback on the tool). Your input is essential to help us refine these resources and ensure their applicability and relevance for the broader DRS community.