Leave No One Behind: Design Principles for Public Warning Systems in Federalism

The effectiveness of public warning systems (PWS) can be challenged by federal structures as the failure of the first nationwide German “Warntag” (Warning Day) showed. By designing PWS to address specific challenges of federal systems, the effectiveness of public warning might be improved. In this paper, we derive design principles for PWS which aim to address these specific challenges. Based on a thorough literature review, challenges regarding responsibility, coordination, and interoperability, as well as functional and technical requirements for PWS in federal systems were identified. By applying a design-oriented research approach, 16 design principles in the categories strategy and governance, standards and templates, and technology are articulated. The research provides guidance for responsible authorities in federal systems for the implementation or evaluation of public warning systems.