A well-articulated problem in the risk assessment process is
the document-based and dispersed nature of data sources that
store such information. Given that, synthesizing and storing large
amounts of information in efficient ways for better risk assessments
has been a recurrent theme for research studies (Shaffner 2011).
In relation to that, identification of the critical parameters to consider
during the risk assessment of dams and managing such information
for better access and manipulation have been the primary
focus in the study.
In relation to embankment dams, various studies have been
conducted to identify critical parameters to be considered for risk
assessment. These studies focus on specific failure modes such as
overtopping, slope instability, levee (river embankment) failure, internal
erosion, seepage, piping, and hydraulic assessment for dams.
Table 2 provides examples of such parameters defined in the literature
given the scope of each study. These parameters, defined in
small sets given the scope of those studies, were comprehensively
identified in this research study and collectively used to form a
starting point for the study presented in this paper.