Conferencing - it works everywhere

One of the lessons from Exercise Java Lava was the value of conference calls and Webcasts. With broadband connectivity over satellite, or with cell phones if operational in the zone, managers can conference as often as needed.

The ADRA Asia team used a proven and reliable service used for years by HumaniNet, www.shareitnow.com, from Encounter Collaborative. ShareItNow made it possible for regional managers in Bangkok as well as mangers in the U.S. to get updates. Robert Patton, exercise director, held a conference call every morning at 7 a.m. In an actual response, conference calls could be held frequently, with different groups on different calls - logistics, planning, security, etc.

I am convinced that conference calls and Webcasts should be planned and used to inform donors and supporters - almost certainly with powerful effect. Photos taken on the scene, taken the same day or hour, can be sent over Webcast. On-the-ground managers can then, in brief audio conference calls, can explain the situation to donors, NGO team members, and anyone else with an interest in the relief operation.

For more "lessons learned," see my articles in our ICT Features section, including "12 Reasons Why Relief Organizations Should Conduct Simulations."

Gregg Swanson