Abstract
This study investigates the collection of social media signals without
exclusive reliance on application programming interfaces (APIs). The current
research on collecting social signals for disaster management is primarily focused
on APIs. This approach is valuable, but it also presents a range of challenges that
need to be taken into account. Thus, the extent and regularity of data collection
may be impacted, posing challenges in obtaining comprehensive and up-to-date
information. In light of this knowledge gap, we put forth a compelling argument
in support of non-API approaches for gathering social signals from social media
platforms. To answer the research questions, a qualitative methodology
employing an inductive approach was used to gather and analyze data from
officers working in disaster management organizations (DMOs). By adopting
this approach, noteworthy themes and patterns emerged and were carefully
examined, ultimately resulting in the derivation of the research findings. The
study highlights the potentials of social signals in enhancing decision-making
across various phases of disaster management. Through innovative techniques,
DMOs can leverage social signals from public posts, comments, and interactions
to gain insights into user sentiments, opinions, and real-time updates. These
insights greatly assist decision-making at different stages of disaster
management, including preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.
Overall, the study emphasizes the effectiveness of gathering social signals from
social media platforms without relying solely on APIs, highlighting their
potential to improve decision-making in disaster management.
Recommended Citation
Safianu, Omar and van Belle, Jean-Paul, "Social Signals: Harnessing Social Media Data for Disaster Management" (2023). ITAIS 2023 Proceedings. 16.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/itais2023/16