Theoretical Foundation for Arctic Maritime Radiological and Nuclear Preparedness Application
Östergård, Emil (2025)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025051512111
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025051512111
Tiivistelmä
Arctic maritime radiological and nuclear preparedness has become increasingly important due to the rising traffic of nuclear-powered vessels and cargo ships transporting radiological and nuclear materials in the region. The purpose of this thesis was to develop a theoretical foundation for a preparedness application, focusing on the Norwegian national context. The objective was to support the preparedness of emergency management authorities and the general public by providing content tailored to each target group. The study was commissioned by the ATOMEX collaboration project.
The theoretical framework was based on official guidelines, international publications, emergency management literature, and previous research. Methods of service design and user experience development, both of which are suitable for application development, were applied. Data was gathered through a focus group interview, a user experience–oriented workshop, and observation of a digital preparedness exercise. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.
The resulting application structure comprises three core modules designed to support gradual and structured learning. Module content was structured according to key findings and therefore positions the application as an entry-level tool to raise awareness and support pre-exercise learning among users with varying levels of prior knowledge. In subsequent development phases, the information structure and findings can be applied as a foundation, and user feedback should be systematically integrated to guide iterative improvements in line with end-user needs.
The theoretical framework was based on official guidelines, international publications, emergency management literature, and previous research. Methods of service design and user experience development, both of which are suitable for application development, were applied. Data was gathered through a focus group interview, a user experience–oriented workshop, and observation of a digital preparedness exercise. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.
The resulting application structure comprises three core modules designed to support gradual and structured learning. Module content was structured according to key findings and therefore positions the application as an entry-level tool to raise awareness and support pre-exercise learning among users with varying levels of prior knowledge. In subsequent development phases, the information structure and findings can be applied as a foundation, and user feedback should be systematically integrated to guide iterative improvements in line with end-user needs.