Resources

Summary

The Post-Event Review Capability (PERC) provides a process and framework for the systematic analysis of a disaster event, focusing on how a specific hazard event became a disaster. It provides a bird’s-eye view of why the event manifested in the way it did and how resilience might be built. PERC builds on the field of disaster forensics to systematically and holistically analyze disaster events and what led to them, and to identify actionable recommendations. It is typically conducted and published within a year of the event, though it can be used in other ways or in other timeframes as necessary.

The document outlines the purpose and methodology of the Zurich Flood Resilience Alliance's Post-Event Review Capability (PERC) manual. It emphasizes the recurrent themes and lessons learned from disaster analyses across diverse contexts. The manual, independent of political influences, aims to understand events and their causes, offering actionable insights for practitioners and authorities. Unlike a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment, PERC doesn't prescribe interventions but provides context-specific recommendations. The updated Version 2 incorporates lessons from PERCs conducted since 2013, offering detailed guidance on applying post-event reviews, implementing recommendations, and adapting to new hazards. The manual includes streamlined language, simplified explanations, and new information on future scenarios and common lessons. The goal is to create an open-access collection of learnings for global decision-makers, planners, practitioners, and researchers to enhance disaster understanding and resilience.