Big data : definition and uses for the humanitarian field

Chair: Tim Head (Wild Tree Tech)

Big data has become a useful tool for the humanitarian sector, being recognized for its efficiently in a highly dynamic and non-stopping environment. As many would agree, it has allowed the collection and analysis of a large influx of information, which has enable a multidimensional insight and approach to decision making. However, mechanisms and ways to implement big data in humanitarian activities seem quite fluid, which can pose limits to its incorporation in a functional more effective manner. Furthermore, the non-stopping growth of big data providers and data collection tools pose various questions in terms of trustworthiness and relevance.
In a sector where innovation and engagement are welcomed and encouraged, big data presents itself as the result of a highly efficient instrument to provide information for the shaping of projects and adaptation of activities. Nevertheless, various challenges lay ahead; what are the methods to use it? How to train the staff in order to fully implement it in urgency-stricken scenarios? How can we assure of its validity?

The Humanitarian Data Exchange -Javier Terán - Statistician and HDX member (OCHA)

Proof of Concept: using fleet movement for generating road networks - Yann Rebois  - GIS Specialist (ICRC)

Social Media Data - Benjamin Hertfort - Assistant at the GISCience Research (University of Heidelberg)

Levering Big Data for Development: A big Donor perspective - Thomas Roca - Researcher and Statistician (AFD)

Due to a technical problem, the session could not be recorded. We apologize for the inconvenience.