Optimal Earthquake Alert

The extremely short window between an earthquake alert and the event itself presents a unique challenge. An effective alert must immediately capture the user's attention, convey a clear message, and prompt immediate action—within just a few seconds.

This research examined the integration of effective design principles with neuropsychological insights to develop an optimal alert system for earthquakes, delivered through mobile phone interfaces.

The project was based on three research and development tracks:

1. Development and evaluation of optimal characteristics for immediate auditory alerts;
2. Development and comparison of unique visual imagery, contrasted with commonly used universal warning symbols;
3. Field testing the effectiveness of combining visual and auditory stimuli through a dedicated app simulating real-time alerts, measuring user response and experience.

Findings from the study indicate that high-contrast visual elements, combined with auditory cues that convey urgency, maximize response efficiency. As part of the development, the jerboa—a small, highly alert desert rodent—was chosen as the system’s representative character. The jerboa provides a unique and innovative visual language for conveying emergency messages, offering an effective alternative to traditional warning symbols.

The research was funded by the National Steering Committee for Earthquake Preparedness and the Directorate of Defense Research and Development at the Israeli Ministry of Defense (MAFAT).

Project Partners: RDFD Group - Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design Jerusalem, the Neuropsychology Laboratory at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, eVigilo Ltd. - Mass Emergency Alert Systems, Tomer Shemi, Hillel Aviezer, Noga Anzenberg-Diamant, and Lior Shalev.