Our response

Information Management

Mine action relies on evidence to be effective – it is an information problem.  For effective and efficient decision-making and priority setting in mine clearance operations it is crucial to collect accurate and timely data, compile and analyse that data, and provide quality information to support evidence-based planning. This requires a strong and reliable information management system.

To this end, the GICHD developed the Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA), which enables mine action partners to compile, store and disseminate accurate, timely and relevant information.  IMSMA enables partners to leverage quality information for efficient, evidence-based decision making and reporting.  IMSMA offers a series of integrated tools, such as mobile data collection, a database that adheres to International Mine Action Standards, and data analytic tools for mapping and reporting.

We constantly adapt IMSMA to the latest technology improvements to better gather, analyze, and visualize data. To support mine action actors at all levels of critical decisions the latest generation of IMSMA (IMSMA CORE) is built by configuring geographic information systems (GIS) tools primarily from Esri

The Centre’s support focuses on:

  • Capacity development: assessments, work plans and training;

  • Technical development: tools and user support;

  • Normative guidance: best practices and policy briefs.

History of Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA)
IMSMA was first developed in 1999 and has represented a cornerstone of GICHD’s support to the mine action community ever since. IMSMA was designed specifically to fill a gap in available technical solutions for capturing mine action information and its requirements, at a time when Information Management was heavily underutilized in the sector.
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IMSMA Core
IMSMA Core is a system of tools and processes that can be configured to fit programmes’ specific operational and reporting requirements, which provides access to a wide range of stakeholders, fosters information sharing and provides real time maps and reports on the extent of contamination.
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Guide to Systems Engineering of Humanitarian Information Management Systems
This Guide introduces theoretical and practical methods for using systems engineering to deploy information management systems that support mine action, peace monitoring, disaster risk reduction and other humanitarian initiatives. Systems engineering enables the successful design, deployment, operation and decommissioning of systems.
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Information Management eLearning Modules
As you begin to learn more about GIS and IMSMA Core throughout the self-paced online modules, you will discover that this technology plays an important role in many aspects of our lives. Disaster recovery, environmental management, and peacekeeping operations are just a few uses for GIS. The GICHD and its partners also use GIS to reduce the impact of mines and other explosive ordnances (EOs) throughout the world.
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