A Comprehensive Analysis of Rescue
Agencies’ Operations During Emergencies
FEATURED PAPER
By Prof. Dr. M. F. HARAKE
CEREGE Research Laboratory
University of Poitiers
Poitiers, France
Abstract
This paper explores the project management processes employed by rescue agencies during times of crisis, with a focus on understanding how effective planning, resource management, and collaboration contribute to successful crisis response. In disaster scenarios—whether caused by natural disasters, public health emergencies, or civil unrest—the role of rescue agencies is critical to minimizing loss of life, mitigating damage, and providing essential support for recovery. The study examines each phase of the crisis management process, from pre-crisis planning and risk assessment to response implementation, coordination, and recovery efforts. Emphasis is placed on the complexities and challenges faced by agencies as they mobilize resources, deploy teams, and adapt to rapidly changing environments. The paper outlines how proactive risk assessment, strategic stockpiling of resources, and the establishment of clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during the pre-crisis phase enable agencies to act quickly and efficiently when disaster strikes. It also delves into the importance of a well-structured command system, real-time communication, and inter-agency coordination during the response phase to ensure that efforts are unified and resources are maximized. The recovery phase, which focuses on rebuilding infrastructure and addressing long-term psychosocial and economic needs, is explored in detail, highlighting the need for continuous adaptation and long-term planning. By reviewing key strategies, challenges, and lessons learned from crisis responses, this paper provides valuable insights for improving future disaster management frameworks. It emphasizes the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and ongoing evaluation in strengthening the preparedness and resilience of rescue agencies, ensuring that they are better equipped to respond to future crises.
Key Words: Crisis management; project management; rescue agencies; disaster response; recovery efforts
- Introduction: The Critical Role of Project Management in Crisis Response
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- Outline
Crisis situations, whether they arise from natural disasters, pandemics, or man-made events such as conflicts or technological failures, demand rapid and efficient intervention (Perry & Lindell, 2003; Handmer & Dovers, 2007). The need for an organized, strategic response is paramount, as effective crisis management can save lives, prevent further destruction, and lay the groundwork for long-term recovery (Coppola, 2007; Boin et al., 2010). At the core of these efforts is the role of rescue agencies, whose operations are guided by structured project management processes designed to ensure that resources are utilized optimally, teams are coordinated, and operations are executed swiftly (Pearson & Mitroff, 1993; Boin, 2004; Eriksson, 2009).
This paper explores the importance of project management in the context of crisis response. It examines how structured planning, timely execution, and adaptive management contribute to the success of rescue operations, especially in chaotic and high-pressure environments. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how rescue agencies utilize project management methodologies to overcome the unique challenges presented during emergencies and deliver effective responses.
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How to cite this work: Harake, M. F. (2025). Strategic Project Management in Crisis Response: A Comprehensive Analysis of Rescue Agencies’ Operations During Emergencies, PM World Journal, Vol. XIV, Issue III, March. Available online at http://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pmwj150-Mar2025-Harake-Strategic-Project-Management-in-Crisis-Response.pdf
About the Author
Prof. Dr. M. F. HARAKE
Poitiers, France
Prof. Dr. M. F. HARAKE is a management Professor based in France. He is currently affiliated with CEREGE Research Laboratory at the University of Poitiers (France), and a visiting research fellow at CABMR Research Center (Paris – France). He is also an Honorary Academic Advisor and Research Scholar for the PM Library (Texas – USA). His research interests include Post-Conflict Public Management, Crisis and Urgent Operations Management, Humanitarian Logistics, and Project Management in Unstable Environments.
He can be contacted at mohamed.fadl.harake@univ-poitiers.fr
To view other works by Prof. Harake, visit his author showcase in the PM World Library at https://pmworldlibrary.net/authors/mohamad-fadl-harake/
