Amy Sample Ward

FEBRUARY 19, 2011

I’m joining a panel to talk about the response for support after the Haiti earthquakes last year. The first example is Ushahidi – originally designed as a tool for mapping reports of violence in Kenya after the post-election unrest in 2008. Examples from Haiti. Now for indirect content or Mash-ups.

Disaster 206

Disaster Social Media Haiti Media 206

NTEN

FEBRUARY 17, 2010

Whether we look at mapping tools, fundraising, or missing person systems, the social media response to the January earthquakes in Haiti all leverage the powerful technology we can hold in our hands: our mobile phones. Reports of violence and of peace efforts could be placed via the web or mobile phone. How can we do that?

Haiti 82

Haiti Disaster Social Media Media 82

Tech Soup

AUGUST 9, 2011

The January 12, 2010 catastrophic earthquake in Haiti showed some of the astonishing potential for volunteer-based digital disaster relief. At the time of the Haiti earthquake, very few people in the country were using Twitter, but it was enough to get news of needs out to the world. A great example of crowdsourcing is Voluntweeters.

Disaster 61

Disaster Digital Haiti Effective 61

Beneblog: Technology Meets Society

APRIL 7, 2011

Maps, helicopter overflights, satellite imagery, field reports from first responders, as well as phone calls and SMS messages from the general public. Unsuccessful approach to crowdsourcing data (on a map): Captain Lopez’ political boss turns down her urgent request to use a helicopter to make a survey of the building damage patterns.

Picture 140

Picture Data Disaster Map 140

NTEN

JANUARY 27, 2010

Geographic information systems (GIS) and online mapping applications continue to become more powerful and easier to use every year. Mapping applications that used to require sophisticated software and time-intensive training to create can now be completed in a matter of minutes with user-friendly tools.

Tools 73

Tools Map Disaster Oregon 73

Tech Soup

SEPTEMBER 26, 2011

The FEMA app includes preparation guidelines for a variety of disasters, including checklists, safety tips, and local shelter maps. Once you've downloaded the app, all this information is accessible regardless of whether you have phone service or internet access during an emergency. Photos and video can also be included.

Disaster 54

Disaster Blackberry Japan Phone 54

NTEN

JANUARY 27, 2010

Geographic information systems (GIS) and online mapping applications continue to become more powerful and easier to use every year. Mapping applications that used to require sophisticated software and time-intensive training to create can now be completed in a matter of minutes with user-friendly tools.

Tools 59

Tools Map Disaster Oregon 59