ICTs in information management of the fire department in the province of Cotopaxi

Abstract

Introduction: In the digital age, information, and communication technologies (ICTs) play a crucial role in information management in various agencies, including the fire service. The province of Cotopaxi, located in central Ecuador, is home to several fire departments that face challenges related to effective and efficient information management, especially during emergencies. The implementation of ICTs can significantly improve adaptability, real-time data collection capabilities, and strategic decision-making capabilities. This study analyzes the impact of ICTs on information management in the Cotopaxi Fire Department and evaluates their use in internal communication, resource planning, and emergency management. Objectives: To analyze how information and communication technologies (ICTs) optimize information collection, processing, storage, and distribution in organizations, thus improving efficiency, accessibility, and decision-making in different environments. Methodology: To conduct this study, a quantitative approach was used because it allows us to collect data by applying the structured survey with 24 closed multiple choice questions distributed in six main dimensions: Digital skills, technology, organizational, operational, information management and ICT training. The data collected were analyzed using statistical graphs and descriptive tables, providing a detailed and structured interpretation of the results obtained, the instrument was designed based on the Likert scale, the population consisted of 3 fire departments from Maná, Salcedo and Pujilí. The data collected were analyzed using statistical graphs and descriptive tables, providing a detailed and structured interpretation of the results obtained. Results: The survey began with 81.42% of people stating that they are always trained to use specific ICT tools for information management, while 24.96% indicated that they are rarely trained to use specific ICT tools for information management. This shows an elevated level of knowledge and awareness on the part of the partners regarding the importance and application of these technological tools in the context of information management. On the other hand, 18.67% consider that updates are rarely conducted in a timely manner, which causes inconvenience. Likewise, 81.33% of respondents fully agree that these updates can always be improved by implementing technological policies and tools. However, 34.66% of respondents consider that there are inconveniences related to the lack of clear and regular policies in this area. On the other hand, 65.34% disagree that there are always adequate and consistent policies. In addition, 24.66% of participants consider that ICTs rarely allow effective monitoring of incidents in real time. While 65.34% agree that ICTs always allow effective monitoring of incidents in real time. 20% of respondents mentioned that ICTs rarely facilitate rapid decision-making in risk situations, optimizing response times and effectiveness in incident management. However, 60.34% of participants said that they always do, indicating that they prefer traditional methods for decision-making due to the perception of greater control and security in critical contexts. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of effectively integrating ICTs into the Fire Department's processes. It is essential to establish clear and sustainable policies that promote technological modernization and ensure efficient information management. General study area: Administrative Sciences. Specific study areas: Administrative Management, Customer Service, and ICT. Type of study: Original Articles.