Formulating a concept of operation (ConOps): A stakeholders-assisted standardization process for developing an...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Computer Science
• Systems Engineering

Background:

• Wildfire management faces challenges due to fragmented technologies and poor coordination.
• Emerging technologies like AI and data fusion offer opportunities for improvement.
• Existing systems lack interoperability and standardized data management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a concept of operations (ConOps) for an integrated, data-driven wildfire management platform.
• To support the EU project SILVANUS in designing a next-generation wildfire management system.
• To address limitations in current wildfire management approaches.

Main Methods:

• A methodology combining systems engineering, standardized information management, and participatory stakeholder engagement.
• Iterative refinement of the ConOps across ten international pilot sites.
• Analysis of operational context and system requirements for pre-fire, active fire, and post-fire phases.

Main Results:

• Identification of key limitations in existing wildfire management systems.
• Development of a structured and replicable framework (ConOps) to address these challenges.
• The methodology effectively supports requirement definition and operational scenario development.

Conclusions:

• The proposed ConOps provides a foundation for an integrated, data-driven wildfire management platform.
• Further real-world pilot testing is required to validate implementation.
• The framework enhances ecosystem resilience and community safety through improved wildfire management.