Risk Reduction through Technology and Design

Building resilience across multiple systems can benefit from a holistic approach. Where we build our neighborhoods and how we design our built environment are key aspects to reducing risk.  Digital infrastructure, real-estate development practices, public space design and stakeholder engagement are often left out of disaster management realms, but are critical to creating mutual benefits for the whole community. While resources are limited, scenario-based modeling and planning can help to identify priorities and strategic partnerships. Through a framework of action research, design for local resilience is examined as a product of collaboration and communication across diverse contexts and communities.

This presentation shares examples from several countries, including the United States and Japan, alongside projects of the MIT Urban Risk Lab and the Resilience Collective in Thailand. MIT’s approach of combining machine learning and product innovation with close local partnerships, pulls academics to focus on real world impact, sharing and co-creating to build stronger, healthier, and happier communities.  Projects span multiple frameworks from planning and design strategies to real time coordination and disaster assessment for flooding and earthquakes. Through design and technology, we can build resilience for more beautiful and economically robust places, which then benefit those most in need during a crisis.