Humanitarian aid and assistance agencies are working all over the world to help developing nations prepare for and respond to disasters. We are proud to share that Fulcrum is actively being used by such organizations for disaster planning.
The Ugandan Red Cross Society has been conducting field surveys in eastern Uganda to assess civil readiness for disasters. In Uganda, teams implemented Fulcrum as a data collection and mapping toolset to support disaster planning efforts. A group of trained volunteers used the platform to administer baseline surveys and document current conditions in local communities. Using Fulcrum on Android devices, the volunteers traveled through villages and interviewed household heads about disaster preparedness. The team followed rigorous surveying methodologies to gather accurate data on community readiness levels. Although the volunteers had no prior experience with data collection, they quickly learned to use the application effectively.
The purpose of disaster planning surveys
This survey collects crucial information to help the organization assess the upcoming flood Early Warning System’s effectiveness. The data helps determine how well the system improves local livelihoods and enhances disaster preparedness in Uganda. Since each survey automatically captures GPS coordinates, teams can perform spatial analyses and create visualizations. These tools help measure Ugandans’ readiness for disasters and support better emergency planning efforts.
Fulcrum also played a key role in a Chilean Red Cross project focused on mapping areas with limited existing data. Like the Ugandan team, Chilean volunteers had no GIS experience but quickly learned to use Fulcrum effectively. By the end of training, the team collected around 800 records within just two hours. The survey’s ultimate goal is to leverage GIS data for risk assessment and develop more detailed exposure layers. These layers help improve disaster planning and enhance response strategies for vulnerable communities.
Fulcrum can easily be employed as a low cost alternative to other data collection toolsets and has the advantage of working completely offline in remote areas. If you are part of a non-profit organization and would be interested in using Fulcrum, please email us and we will work with your budget to offer you the best pricing plan.