ICT for development
Wikis, webs, and networks: creating connections for conflict-prone settings
Internet networking in conflict-prone settings
Authors:
R. Linder; CSIS
Publisher:
2nd World Water Forum and Ministerial Conference: From Vision to Action, 2006
This report recommends ways to improve connectivity between the various actors working in conflict prone settings. The ultimate goal of enhanced connectivity is to enable local populations to prevent and mitigate conflict and help rebuild their country. This report is intended for civilians as well as the military, the public and private sectors, and Americans as well as international and national actors.
Four principles, proven true in a variety of settings and industries, form the basis of this report. If embraced the authors argue they have the potential to improve operations in conflict prone settings:
- connectivity increases effectiveness. Connectivity is the capacity for individuals and organizations to interface. connectivity allows for, but does not guarantee, frequent and meaningful interactions, which can help diverse actors develop a common operating language, plan and conduct joint exercises, and integrate operations during crises
- free revealing. Openly sharing new ideas, innovations, and information is better suited to fast-paced, chaotic environments than is the traditional practice of closely managing information flows through established hierarchies
- community generates content. Relying on the community to generate, share, and interpret content makes the best use of resources and minimizes constraints in conflict settings. These settings demand flexibility and adaptability on many levels. User-driven content, in which all individuals contribute information, share concepts, and evaluate resources, is the practical choice for environments with conflicting and unreliable data
- lead users drive the market. By identifying and promoting the practices of lead users (those at the top end of the bell curve), the effectiveness of the entire international community can be enhanced
This report is organized into four sections. The first defines the nature of the problem and examines the constraints associated with operating in conflict-prone settings. The second describes how recent trends in information sharing can improve results. The third section outlines four principles and provides strategic guidelines for enhancing connectivity. The fourth section prioritizes steps for implementation and provides an extensive list of links to further information.
