MapAction wins Data Analysts User Group award

DUG is a member organisation for commercial data analysts to meet and exchange best practice. MapAction was chosen to receive the award because of its work to ensure that those preparing for and responding to humanitarian emergencies around the world have the data and information systems and products they need to make sure the right aid to gets to where it’s most needed as quickly as possible.

The award was presented by DUG Director Dr Tim Drye at the Group’s annual conference at the Royal Society on 26 October.

Dr Drye commented, “We have been investigating the possibility of building a team of rapid response data analysts and scientists within DUG. During our research at least three different people pointed us to the great work that MapAction are already doing. They have developed a robust infrastructure, capacity and processes that can respond to emergencies promptly and effectively. It is wonderful to see data and analysis being used in these circumstances so effectively. We at DUG are keen to recognise this work with our annual award for contributions to the development of data and analysis within the UK.”

Liz Hughes, CEO of MapAction, said, “We are very grateful to DUG for recognising MapAction in this way. It underlines, on the one hand, the value and importance of geospatial analysis for more effective humanitarian response, and, on the other, the expertise and commitment of our highly skilled volunteers.”

At the conference Liz Hughes and MapAction volunteer Karl Hennermann gave a short presentation on diversity analysis and its relevance to humanitarian action.