Information and interaction needs of vulnerable groups with regard to disaster alert apps

Abstract

In recent years, disaster management agencies introduced alert apps in order to inform the population in case of disasters. Initially, app design was focused on the average citizen and his or her information and interaction needs. However, vulnerable population groups need additional information or may have specific interaction requirements due to various types of impairments. This paper discusses how the needs of different vulnerable groups can be addressed. It also analyzes the suitability of an off-the-shelf disaster alert app for deaf people by presenting results of an exploratory field test.