Simple messaging and collaboration system for disaster environments

Abstract

A novel communication system for use by all first responders in a given disaster response activity is described. The system is based primarily on SMS messaging technologies and either indigenous mobile phone service providers or mobile phone service brought in via cellular-on-wheels (COWs), UAVs, rapidly deployed towers, etc. End users use either their own cell phones, running a native SMS application, or low-cost phones that are distributed by a large non-governmental organization, such as UN OCHA. If a proprietary network is set up, SIM cards are distributed to end users to allow access to the network, or administrators will explicitly allow access via a phone's IMEI number or other access control methods.