Disasters Emergency Committee
Improving disaster response with a new digital strategy
In times of crisis, speed and coordination are critical to delivering aid effectively. We worked closely with the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to develop a forward-thinking strategy that enhanced its ability to respond quickly, maximise fundraising, and improve operational oversight.
Digital Strategy
The challenge
When large-scale disasters hit countries without the capacity to respond, the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) brings together 15 leading UK aid charities to raise funds quickly and efficiently. Digital technology has revolutionised how people access news and information, and the DEC wanted to adapt to these changes so that it could remain effective in disaster situations.
Our approach
We began by building a deep understanding of the context in which the DEC operates, including the role of technology in disaster zones, models of giving during a disaster and the logistical challenges of delivering aid during crises. To help us do this, we conducted extensive user research, ran interviews with senior strategists in broadcast and major digital providers. We then supported these findings with a series of transformation workshops.
Using these insights, we developed a digital strategy supported by a long-term implementation plan. The strategy prioritised agility and responsiveness, ensuring the DEC could act swiftly in emergency situations. Alongside this, we created a project management framework, mentoring and training programmes for project managers and a suite of practical tools and templates.
To ensure effective oversight, we supported the executive team with a governance framework, live programme monitoring tools and KPI reporting systems. Additionally, we introduced an innovation framework based on GV’s standard design sprint model to foster creative problem-solving and continuous improvement.
The results
The final strategy equipped the DEC with a robust, adaptable digital approach to respond quickly and effectively in disaster situations. With improved governance, clearer processes, and tools for innovation, the organisation is better positioned to harness digital technology, streamline aid delivery and maximise fundraising efforts during times of crisis.
Image: Maciek Musialek/DEC
What the client said
“We Are MC² brought a huge breadth of strategic voluntary sector digital experience and an outsider’s eye to help us sharpen our understanding of our situation. They provided a framework and rigour to ensure we challenged ourselves to deliver a programme that was truly transformational rather than just a step change. They saw connections where we discrete projects defined by internal structures. They helped us create a real roadmap for digital transformation rather than simply doing more digital work.”
Brendan Paddy, Director of Communications, Disasters Emergency Committee
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