Guidance for Incorporating Big Data Into Humanitarian Operations

This report provides a framework for humanitarian organizations to navigate the integration of large, complex datasets into their operations. It addresses the gap between the promise of data-driven solutions and the practical challenges of implementation, offering guidance on understanding, acquiring, and utilizing data to improve service delivery and decision-making during crises.

The document defines big data in the humanitarian context as information derived from diverse, high-velocity sources—such as social media, mobile tracking, and sensor data—that can be analyzed to inform strategic responses. It emphasizes that big data is not a standalone solution but rather a complement to traditional data, capable of providing real-time insights, improving situational awareness, and identifying patterns that traditional methods might overlook.

Implementation requires a structured approach, including internal capacity building, policy development, and a commitment to ethical standards. Organizations are encouraged to focus on specific humanitarian questions—such as where affected populations are, what they need, and where gaps in relief exist—before selecting appropriate data indicators. The report outlines a functional "data wheel" of processes, from initial collection and validation to visualization and decision-making, while stressing the importance of data privacy, beneficiary confidentiality, and collaborative partnerships.