Ushahidi

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As we mentioned in support, iGetcha.org loves what Ushahidi has done and more nonprofits and ngos need to know about them ;) Crowdsourcing is a bit of a buzzword right now and we want to help explain this term more simply... Basically as an example, Ushahidi offers an open source platform for crisis management. Essentially once the system is deployed successfully to a server, a mapping interface will show locations of crisises as they are input into the system. Additionally, an sms number can be set up to alert a nonprofit and/or ngo of crisis situations such as violence, disaster zones, and riots.

The iGetcha team has not fully tested the system but downloading the Java application to a mobile and deploying it to a server makes it apparent that this system can be improved for mobilized volunteers to help the community in crisis situations. The fact that it works with sms is amazing and allows anyone in a dangerous situation to seek aid with little to no cost...

As mentioned, we're exploring the system and we've added another amazing platform in our directory for nonprofits and NGOs - FrontlineSMS. This system operates on your own personal computer (no server needed) with an old cellphone to send and receive SMSes. FrontlineSMS combined with Ushahidi mapping sync is a truly amazing system that will get better for nonprofits and NGOs as the community continues to contribute to the codebase. Really exciting!

Ushahidi and FrontlineSMS, you're awesome!

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