Call for Expressions of Interest: Next FSC Information Management Tool Training on 9-12 December in Rome, Italy

The gFSC is hosting the next Food Security Cluster Information Management (IM) Tool Training at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy from Tuesday, 9 December until Friday, 12 December 2014.

We are now calling for expressions of interest from current IM Officers and other staff members working with or interested in Cluster IM to participate in this training. Priority will be given to Information Managers currently working in (or to be deployed to) L3 emergencies. It is intended that after the training, participants can start using the IM Tool in their respective country-clusters.

Background: gFSC Information Management Tool

Information Management is one of the core Food Security Cluster funcions. Recognizing the need for the country-level Food Security Clusters to take a holistic approach to data collection and sharing, the gFSC has created a web-based Information Management (IM) tool for cluster systems and partners to use to collect, analyse and report on food security responses.

With the ability to be deployed to any operation, the IM tool will make data collection, processing, and response analysis globally comparable.  By producing operational reports and maps the IM tool will give visibility to gaps and overlaps of partner responses and ultimately avoid duplication of humanitarian assistance, especially considering issues of food availability, access and utilization.  Consistent information sharing by partners will facilitate project tracking and monitoring and result in evidence based decision making for strategic intervention and improved implementation.

The IM Tool was pilot tested during the Pilot IM Tool Training in July 2014 in Rome.  Following testing and feedback from participants the IM tool is now being finalized and will be rolled out in the Somalia FSC before it is implemented in other Food Security Clusters around the world.  For more information on the IM Tool, please visit the dedicated webpage on IM Tool.

Purpose of the Training:

At the end of the training, it is planned that:

• Participants have gained an understanding of core IM concepts and how the IM tool can be used to facilitate IM. 
• Participants are able to manage and use the gFSC IM tool in their respective cluster. Participants understand how to train FSC partners to use the gFSC IM tool.
• Participants know how to produce basic reports and maps with the IM Tool and have learned how to use pivot table for advanced analysis.

Please note that the selected participants will be asked to complete a few short pre-training tasks. Details will be shared closer to the training.

Administrative Information:

Kindly note that the costs (flights, accommodation, DSA etc.) are to be covered by the participant. We will be happy to provide you with a list of hotels close to FAO.

Please send the completed attached application form and a copy of your updated CV to confirm your interest in the training by 17 October 2014 to Kaisa Antikainen kaisa.antikainen@wfp.org, copying Marisa Muraskiewicz marisa.muraskiewicz@wfp.org.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.