We are officially launching Digital Surge – a new global rapid response capability designed to make sure digital systems support emergency operations from day one and critical National Society programs.
In addition, we are re-launching RCSelect – a web application to help NS and IFRC program and emergency response teams find information about and choose the right digital solution for their needs.
When an emergency strikes, NS and IFRC response and program teams should not lose time because tools are not connected, data is not protected, or systems do not scale. Digital Surge helps us avoid that. It is a coordinated service that helps NS and IFRC response and program teams select, set up, connect and transition the digital systems our operations depend on. Digital Surge can be used for emergency operations or to strengthen National Society preparedness. It does not replace Information Management or other functions – it strengthens them. For instance, it provides the technical backbone that allows Information Management to access reliable, well-structured data and focus on analysis, interpretation and decision support.
Why Digital Surge matters
Digital Surge is designed to help colleagues across the network to:
- Assess, launch and stabilize digital workflows quickly so teams can start supporting affected people faster and at larger scale
- Reduce operational risk when spreadsheets or disconnected tools will not hold at scale
- Protect sensitive data through clear governance on access, backups, retention and deletion
- Clarify decisions on vendors, licenses, hosting and support before they become bottlenecks
- Protect Information Management capacity so it can focus on producing actionable analysis rather than troubleshooting systems.
Digital Surge is particularly relevant when multiple tools must work together across several programs; data volumes are high or sensitive; or when operations require rapid set‑up of registration, case management, communications or volunteer systems.
How it works
Behind the scenes, the IFRC Digital Transformation, Information Management and Surge team, with outstanding support from the American Red Cross, have recruited a dedicated Digital Surge roster from across the IFRC network. Two rapid response profiles – Digital Systems Coordinator and Digital Tools Officer – ensure both technical leadership and hands‑on implementation are available when needed. These roles work in close collaboration with Information Management teams to ensure systems are aligned with operational data needs and analysis workflows.
Over the coming months, roster members will be trained on the existing IFRC digital tool portfolio. Many are already ready for deployment, while others will continue building skills through workshops and learning sessions.
What’s next
You can learn more about Digital Surge here 👉 https://go.ifrc.org/surge/catalogue/digital-systems
You can explore about available Digital tools here 👉 RC Select - Home
Any questions, feedback, reach out to the team 👉 [email protected]