Archived article
Humanitarian Apps for Change
Case Study
In today’s digital age, efficient management of multichannel communication and transferal of knowledge, is a central requirement of many businesses, institutions, and NGOs. Industry experts are increasingly turning to mobile applications to gain an edge on understanding and sharing information surrounding pressing global issues.
These tools function as digital communication platforms enabling users to discuss, visualize and most importantly take action in times of conflict. The apps provide access to previously inaccessible documents, information, and evaluative material proving particular useful among experts and decisions makers as quick and easy reference tools in times of negotiation.
Since 2010, Lucid has been designing humanitarian apps with a focus on conflict aid and human rights. These apps act as reference tools providing information including documents, legislation, and humanitarian guidance manuals. Developed in cooperation with academic institutions, ministries and NGOs, the apps prove particularly useful among UN officials and humanitarian actors, but are frequently downloaded by civilians as crisis aid handbooks.
The success of these apps is based on the ability to provide relevant information without sacrificing accuracy. In the past, existing resolutions and legislation surrounding particular UN Security Council agendas required extensive research and preparation prior to negotiations. By focusing on content organization, visual design appeal, and the implementation of user-friendly interface, thousands of previously unavailable resources are made accessible at the touch of a screen, and on a wide variety of operating systems. In addition, field personnel monitoring and reporting on violations can use these apps offline to quickly access documents and case advice without searching through lengthy reports.
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To date, our apps have been downloaded in over one hundred countries — many of which extend beyond the OECD members states. For policy-makers and specialists, these tools enhance the opportunity to adequately maintain international peace and security. With the growth of mobile use in emerging countries and developing regions around the world, future advancement of these apps will increasingly provide guidance and aid in such areas as education, medical care, environmental protection and economic development, enhancing the safety of humanitarian workers and the lives of civilians.
