Based on the established major research areas, DRI defines a core research theme, which forms the core of practical research in DRI, and vigorously promotes a core research project throughout the organization.

Core research theme: Improving disaster response capability of local governments in preparation for future large-scale disasters

There is great concern that large-scale disasters, such as Tokai, Tonankai and Nankai earthquakes, may occur in the near future. We intend to issue proposals that will help improve the disaster-response capability of local governments in preparing for large-scale disasters. These proposals will be based on results and findings from our past research and other activities, including research on the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, our experience in headquarters assistance in disaster response at the time of the Niigata Chuetsu Earthquake, and specialized training in disaster response.
We will work on this theme for about five years, and in FY2006 will promote the following project.

Core research project: Systematization of knowledge that will enable effective response in the immediate phase after disaster

Since disaster response operations do not occur on a frequent basis, local governments generally treat them as some sort of special task. However, natural disasters occur every year somewhere or other in Japan. This means that there are always some local governments every year that carry out disaster relief and recovery operations. However, as yet, no local governments have established a disaster response system that can function effectively in the chaotic situation immediately after a disaster, so each time a disaster occurs, local governments seem to struggle with the same problems, and their disaster response is a passive and temporary action.

In this research, to establish an effective disaster response system based on objective management, we will clarify objectives for disaster response/recovery operations for the first two to four weeks after a disaster, and systematize the objectives as illustrated below. First, we will interview victims of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake to identify the needs they had after the earthquake. Then, based on the results, we will establish objectives for administrative operations that meet the identified needs, develop a disaster response plan for the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, and attempt to draw generalizations that can be applied to other disasters. Major advantages of objective-based management are:
1) better understanding of the needs of disaster victims and the actual conditions of disaster-affected communities;
2) flexible response to changing environments; and
3) delegating decision-making to field staff.
This research will provide local governments with valuable information for use in formulating effective disaster response measures.