In an era of ever increasing humanitarian disasters and constantly evolving digital technology, Oxfam is gathering evidence about how Information Communications Technologies (ICTs) can improve the quality and efficiency of our work. In this blog, Laura Eldon shares progress to date with an exciting Sida-funded multi country programme which is exploring how ICTs can add value to activities throughout the humanitarian project cycle. 
Increasing levels of connectivity and penetration of mobile phones mean ICTs have ever more relevant potential to support quality programming where appropriate. Over 60% of the countries in which Oxfam works now use ICTs in their programmes and more than half of these applications are linked to humanitarian response: for assessments, monitoring, registrations, information provision and feedback mechanisms. There are also increasing applications of technologies linked to cash modalities such as mobile money and vouchers.  ICTs are allowing Oxfam to increase our impact, broaden our reach, reduce costs, increase speed to complete procedures, to allow more responsive programming and increase accountability. 

Read the full post on Oxfam Policy & Practice Blog

By Laura Eldon, ICT in Programme Humanitarian Advisor at Oxfam GB