Tech When the Sky is Falling - Tools for Crisis Response

Explore the critical role of technology in crisis response through a case study of MaskMatch, a peer-to-peer mask donation organization launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn how to rapidly develop and scale a tech-enabled crisis response project, make crucial technology decisions under time pressure, and manage volunteers effectively. Discover the framework used to deliver nearly a million masks to frontline healthcare workers using almost-free technologies. Gain insights into selecting appropriate tools, making strategic tech investments, handling tradeoffs, managing chaos, and knowing when to conclude a project. Prepare yourself with practical knowledge for future crisis situations where your technical skills could make a significant impact.

Intro
Meet Mask Match
A Framework for Tech-Enabled Crisis Response
What is Crisis Response?
The PPE Shortage Dominates News
Meet Our Co-Founders
Mask Match: An elegant idea
The Donation Process
The System
Reduce Errors, Track Successes
Project Status - It's Working!!
It's Chaos!
Enable volunteer tasks
Enable volunteer workflows
Phase 2: Measure Impact
Phase 2: System Status Report
Volunteer Tooling Breakdowns
Build Tools for Volunteer Efficiency
It's time for a real database
Harden Your Tools
Automation
Better Metrics
The Crisis had Changed
Problems
Keep Delivering Impact
Adapt to the World Around You
Graceful Shutdown
Final Project Status