Innovation in Action:
One of the most interesting projects that has emerged during the response to the earthquake in Haiti is Ushahidi, a free and open source platform that “allows anyone to gather distributed data via SMS, email or web and visualize it on a map or timeline.”

In short, the goal is to create the simplest way of aggregating information from the public for use in crisis response.

The Important Details:
Ushahidi, of course, isn’t that new — its just beginning to gain the mainstream recognition it deserves because of its use in Haiti.  In March 2009, I was part of a group at WeMedia that recognized Ushahidi as a ‘Game Changer.’

What’s a Game Changer?  “Game Changers lead society to knowledge. They inspire involvement and action through media. They provide example, insight and inspiration for leaders and visionaries from all fields by demonstrating how to navigate and lead the connected society.”  Ushahidi won “For redefining the ability of people to quickly communicate vital information for action.

see also http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/14/weekinreview/14giridharadas.html?ref=techno...