Cascading Infrastructure Failure

I am sure many of you have heard me talk of the concept called "cascading infrastructure failure". It is based on the idea that no critical infrastructure is self-sufficient. The best resource I have found on this topic so far is at JMU's Institute for Infrastructure and Information Assurance (Sorry, not VTech, Dom).

The IIIA states:

The complexity inherent in the interdependent nature of infrastructure systems complicates planning and preparedness for system failures. Recent wide-scale disruption of infrastructure on the Gulf Coast due to weather, and in the Northeast due to electric power network failures, dramatically illustrate the problems associated with mitigating cascading effects and responding to cascading infrastructure failures once they have occurred.

The major challenge associated with preparedness for cascading failures is that they transcend system, corporate, and political boundaries and necessitate coordination among multiple, disparate experts and authorities.

There are a few reasons why I like the topic of cascading infrastructure failure and think that it is an area where IWS should develop expertise...
(1) it focuses on enabling the front line defenders, or the state and locals (4GW at its core),
(2) it requires a proactive, holistic approach
(3) interdependant infrastructure is a paradigm that easily translates from IWS' core expertise in enterprise systems strategy, and
(4) it fits directly into the mission of the IWS EML.

I propose we study this concept and consider ways in which we can become experts in the field.

Also, note that Todd Heffner attended their 2007 Symposium.