Project Overview
From January to September 2017, Naroman collaborated with Belun, a leading Timorese NGO focused on peacebuilding, to design and implement a comprehensive tablet-based data collection system and accompanying website. The project was part of Belun's nationally recognized Early Warning, Early Response (EWER) program, which monitors and helps prevent violent conflict across Timor-Leste.
About Belun & the EWER Program
Belun is a Timorese NGO dedicated to building national capacity for conflict prevention and promoting a culture of peace. Their Early Warning, Early Response (EWER) program has been operating since 2009, collecting and analyzing data on violent incidents and their underlying causes across the country. The program employs a network of community monitors who identify potential conflicts and work with local stakeholders to implement appropriate responses.
Key Challenges
Prior to this project, Belun's data collection relied on paper forms, which presented several challenges:
- Time-consuming manual data entry and processing
- Delays in reporting and analyzing conflict incidents
- Difficulty in maintaining data quality and consistency
- Limited accessibility of analyzed data for stakeholders
- Challenges in maintaining a comprehensive historical database
- Logistical difficulties in distributing forms to remote areas
Our Solutions
Tablet-Based Data Collection
Customized 13 tablet computers with an intuitive data collection system allowing monitors to record incident details directly in the field, eliminating paper forms and manual data entry.
ODK Aggregate Server
Configured a Linux-based server running Open Data Kit (ODK) Aggregate to securely collect, store, and process data submitted from the field tablets.
Real-Time Analysis Website
Developed the ATRES (atres.belun.tl) website where the public can access and analyze incident data in real-time through interactive visualizations and reports.
Incident Mapping
Integrated geospatial mapping tools allowing users to visualize the distribution and patterns of conflict incidents across different regions.
Custom Analytics
Implemented specialized analytical tools to identify trends, causes, and potential hotspots for conflict, supporting evidence-based prevention strategies.
Training Program
Developed and delivered comprehensive training modules for the EWER management team and 13 municipal coordinators on using the new digital system.
Technical Implementation
The project utilized a combination of technologies to create an integrated conflict monitoring system:
Project Scope
The implementation of this digital system involved several key phases:
- System design and architecture planning in collaboration with Belun leadership
- Configuration of 13 tablet computers with the custom data collection forms
- Setup and configuration of a dedicated ODK Aggregate server on Linux
- Development of the ATRES website with public-facing analytics
- Creation of a comprehensive training curriculum on the new system
- Delivery of hands-on training to the EWER management team
- Additional training for 13 municipal coordinators responsible for data collection
- Post-implementation support and system refinement
Impact & Results
The digitalization of Belun's conflict monitoring system brought substantial improvements to their EWER program:
- Reduced data processing time from weeks to minutes, enabling faster response to emerging conflicts
- Improved data quality and consistency through standardized digital forms
- Enhanced analytical capabilities through real-time statistics and trend identification
- Increased accessibility of conflict data for government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders
- Strengthened evidence base for policy recommendations and prevention strategies
- Built technical capacity within Belun for sustainable management of the digital system
- Created a valuable historical database to track long-term conflict patterns and prevention effectiveness
Capacity Building Focus
A central aspect of this project was ensuring Belun could independently maintain and utilize the system:
- Conducted thorough knowledge transfer sessions with the EWER management team
- Created detailed documentation in both English and Tetum
- Developed visual training materials for monitors with varying levels of technical experience
- Established step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues
- Provided ongoing technical support during the initial implementation phase
- Trained key staff members as trainers who could onboard new team members