Decision Support Tools: Strategies for Effectively Linking Hydroclimatic Science and Society

In the context of hydroclimatic science, realization of socio-economic benefits of from public investments remains incomplete because decision makers have difficulty: 1) interpreting individual products, 2) appropriately judging information credibility, and 3) linking different types of information, both conceptually and practically. Addressing these barriers is as important as improving the science leading to improved information. The challenge is creating flexible information products and tools that can accommodate unique user needs; the goal is a systemic change in the nature of information delivery and use. The underlying assumption is not that science information is good and useful, and simply needs to be communicated effectively. Rather, a number of conditions must be met before decision makers can make informed choices about whether to use particular information in a specific situation. Several case studies, of varying success, illustrate user-centric strategies for developing decision support tools. Further, the development and long-term sustainability of effective decision support tools pose challenges for academic and public institutions. The field of decision support resources in hydroclimatic science is not mature enough to make conclusive statements, but several strategies for sustainability are examined as well.