network of knowledge on applying an indicator-based methodology for minimizing flood vulnerability

Flood vulnerability assessment plays a key role in the area of risk management. Therefore, techniques that make this assessment more straightforward and at the same time improve the results are important. In this briefing, we present an automated calculation of a flood vulnerability index implemented through a web management interface (PHP) that enhances the ability of decision makers to strategically guide investment. To test the applicability of this methodology using this website, many case studies are required in order to cover the full range of cases in terms of scale such as river basin, subcatchment and urban area. This requires prompt solutions with large amounts of data and this has led to the development of this automated tool to help organize, monitor, process and compare the data of different case studies. The authors aim to create a network of knowledge between different institutions and universities in which this methodology is used. It is also hoped to encourage collaboration between the members of the network on managing flood vulnerability information and also promoting further studies on flood risk assessment at all scales. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley '' Sons, Ltd.