Technologies for monitoring in insecure environments

This toolkit explores technologies for monitoring in insecure environments, including mobile phones, GPS tracking, and remote sensing.

It offers practical solutions for data collection, real-time tracking, and engaging communities through feedback mechanisms, making it highly useful for M&E practitioners working in fragile and conflict-affected settings.

This resource covers a range of technologies useful for monitoring in insecure environments, including mobile phones, digital data entry devices, remote sensing technologies, and GPS tracking systems. Developed for humanitarian aid agencies, it provides practical guidance for implementing these technologies, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected contexts. It highlights the advantages, challenges, and examples of successful use in FCV settings, such as monitoring displaced populations and tracking aid delivery. The resource also discusses feedback mechanisms, including the use of radio programmes and online platforms to engage with affected communities.

Key features

• Using Mobile Phones for Monitoring and Gathering Feedback: Mobile phones are used for data collection through surveys and feedback hotlines. While affordable and scalable, challenges include limited phone access and security risks, particularly interception.
• Digital data entry with tablets or smartphones: These devices streamline data collection and reduce errors associated with manual entry. However, risks include theft, damage, and power shortages, mitigated through training and secure data transmission protocols.
• Remote Sensing and Aerial Imagery with Satellites, Radars, or UAVs: Technologies like satellites and UAVs help monitor hard-to-reach areas. Although they offer comprehensive geographic coverage, challenges include high costs and privacy concerns.
• Location tracking: GPS technology allows real-time tracking of aid deliveries and field staff, improving accountability and transparency. Risks include device theft and compromised privacy, which can be addressed with proper encryption.
• Complementing Feedback Mechanisms with Radio Programmes: Radios are reliable for reaching and receiving feedback from populations in areas with limited internet or phone access. They are particularly valuable for illiterate communities, though interception is a concern.
• Communications with Online Platforms: Social media and other web-based applications enable real-time communication and feedback collection. Data security and misinformation risks are mitigated through encryption and data management protocols.

How would you use the resource?

M&E practitioners working in conflict-affected environments can use this toolkit to identify and implement appropriate technological solutions for monitoring programmes remotely. The toolkit offers concrete steps for setting up mobile phone surveys, using GPS tracking for aid deliveries, and employing aerial imagery to monitor inaccessible areas. The sections on digital data entry and remote sensing can help practitioners and agencies transition from paper-based to digital systems. The toolkit also provides tools for gathering community feedback through radio or mobile phones, which can enhance transparency and accountability in insecure settings.

Why are we recommending it?

This resource stands out for its comprehensive coverage of technologies tailored for insecure and hard-to-reach environments. It provides actionable guidance on overcoming common challenges in FCV settings, such as limited infrastructure, security risks, and accessibility issues, while also highlighting the importance of engaging local populations through feedback mechanisms like mobile phones and radio programmes.