Disasters strain coordination efforts between groups. Interoperability is best assessed while in process, but retrospective analysis can also illuminate problems and identify solutions. COVID-19 created an international public health crisis that required civilian-military response in many locations, creating an opportunity to evaluate interoperability of multiple international systems at a single moment in time confronting a single crisis.

This project uses three published interoperability models to identify interoperability activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. That data was then utilized to assess the interoperability effectiveness. The data was also utilized to develop a framework for assessing a group’s current interoperability and assist with improvement goals.

Papers on civilian-military interoperability during COVID-19 were identified utilizing a search of medical literature. They were then assessed using three interoperability models: Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Program (JESIP), Organizational Interoperability Maturity Model (OIMM), and the Homeland Security Interoperability Continuum (HSIC).

Of the 48 articles discussing interoperability criteria, the most common coordination criteria were shared situational awareness, joint understanding of risk, and standard operating procedures. The least likely interoperability criteria seen during international civilian-military COVID-19 disaster responses were co-location, preparedness, shared technology, prior training exercises, and previous experience. Utilizing this data, a combined interoperability assessment model was created for organizations to utilize to evaluate and improve their current level of interoperability.

Disaster focused organizations with different cultures yet potential future interactions should perform an initial interoperability self-assessment to determine their current level of coordination. They should then follow the next steps for improving interoperability before the next disaster strikes.