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.
Overview
Syllabus
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
Taught by
Strange Loop Conference
