Developing an Ushahidi map for election monitoring in Colombia

Presidential elections May 30, 2010

Origins of Ushahidi

Ushahidi inspired platforms in the world

Crowdsourced disaster management

Election monitoring in Mexico, 2009

Monitoring the 2010 elections in Colombia

http://moviles.securesites.net/ushahidi/ http://denuncia.nuestrasele

cciones.org/

How to send an report?

1) Sending an email

2) Using tweet#eleccionesCO or#votebien2010

3) Submitting an online report

4) Movistar cell phone users: sending a text message to 5550

Real-time information mapping

Online collaboration demystified:

• Importance of physical networks

• Easy exit system

• Leadership and hierarchy

• The critical mass

• Panacea for social and political (digital) activism?

Traditional media & centralized institutions vs

public participation

• Work mentalities and networks

• Verification process: filtering, accreditation, and credibility

Verification process

Anonymity, security- and solidarity building

• Protection mechanism and

risks

• Closed versus open platforms

• Benefiting from media hype

Evaluation, shortcomings and future challenges

• Talent pool and solidarity

• Social and digital inclusiveness (>focus on shortcodes)

• Follow-up mechanisms: National Election Commission and Frontline SMS

Conclusion