Press release: Embargo until 26th August 2009

Software helps speed response in times of crisis

Computer scientists are giving emergency services free access to
pioneering software that will enable a more effective response to
crisis situations.

The software, which combines technology used in virtual
three-dimensional environments such as Second Life and networking
sites such as Facebook, will allow users to co-ordinate their response
from a virtual three-dimensional command centre.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh, who created the software,
say the approach would enable emergency workers to remotely monitor
and plan responses to an unfolding crisis, such as an earthquake or
tsunami.

The software, developed jointly with online event management company
Clever Zebra, would allow speedy communication between members of
response teams simultaneously and allow specialists across the world
to join in to offer their expertise and assistance. The software
designers say the technology would enable response teams to better
respond to events as they unfold.

The software, known as the Open Virtual Collaboration Environment
(OpenVCE), will be made available to a range of agencies from today
(Wednesday, 26 August).

Developers also hope the tool may eventually be adapted for use in a
range of business, teaching and social environments.

Professor Austin Tate, from the University of Edinburgh’s School of
Informatics, who led the development of the software, said: "We
hope that by making this software available, we can help support the
work of emergency services in coping with crises as they break and
develop."

For more information please see http://openvce.net 

Or for more information and images contact:
   Prof Austin Tate, University of Edinburgh, email A.Tate@ed.ac.uk