Overview | Information Management & Data Processing Support Tools

Information is a valuable and strategic resource that requires adequate management in order to support decision-making. Information must be framed within a structured and guiding vision aimed at the achievement of clear goals and objectives.

Before use of any data processing support tool, such as IMSMA, a thorough assessment of information needs is vital. This initial step allows the manager to determine which information is required to support decisions. It is a tailoring process of the concepts of the information management cycle, which includes

• which data will need to be collected
• how data will have to be processed and analysed
• how information will have to be disseminated for the support of decisions, in all cases:
• in a timely manner
• with relevance
• with accuracy
• implementation with strong commitment and consistency
• clear understanding by all stakeholders of all basic concepts, objectives and vision

The information management definition is a core principle of each mine action programme. The development of processes, including guidelines and policies properly tailored to the local needs of the operations, should aim at the targeted results in an efficient and effective manner.

Information management should continuously improve information processing capability, which will increase the support of management and generate best practices. The complexity of information management can be handled with computerised means. IMSMA^NG can be used for this purpose to align data processing needs and effectiveness throughout the information management cycle.

The GICHD is focusing its efforts on updating a series of white papers on best practices and lessons learned in information management principles and processes. These white papers will also cover the use of support tools such as IMSMA^NG for decision-making. They will be issued throughout the year 2009 and 2010 and distributed for the greatest impact to all stakeholders of information management in the mine action programmes.

Geospatial Information Management

Maps and geospatial information systems (GIS) serve a valuable role in humanitarian demining. Symbols are necessary for representing the many categories of landmine hazards and mine action processes on maps. The development of a standard set of map symbols specifically for humanitarian demining was necessary to avoid ambiguity or confusion. Their adoption promotes efficiency in mine action. Font files have been created for inclusion in IMSMA^NG.

For further information, please contact

Aurora Martinez