10. Identification of needs

Abstract

Needs are not directly assessed, but rather, the identification of needs is the result of a complex process that requires integration and synthesis of many factors, including the results from numerous assessments. The assessments synthesised into needs include: (1) the pre-event levels of function; (2) the amount and types of damage sustained initially and existing at the current time; current (3) levels of function and the levels of function detected by the last assessment; (4) the presence of a surge; (5) the demands of the population affected; (6) the culture in which the event occurred; (7) the climate in the affected area; (8) the geography and access to the affected area; and (9) politics. The process consumes resources (costs). The transformation process (synthesis) of these many factors requires that those charged with synthesis have knowledge, field experience, insight, and experience using the process.