In the previous version, the category “Mobile Communication Technology Platforms” did not distinguish between SMS and IVR technologies. In this updated version, “Mobile Data Tools” has separate listings for SMS and IVR.
In the previous version, “Geospatial Mapping Tools” featured mostly crowdmapping tools. In this updated version, a new category called “Geographic Information System Tools” features three main GIS types: spatial data collection tools, online mapping tools, and crowdmapping tools
Focus on Open Source technology. In line with the Principles for Digital Development, this year's update features an additional emphasis on open source technologies. This is reflected in the accessibility scoring. However, it is important to note that ‘Free and open source’ doesn’t always mean no-cost, turn-key solutions ready for immediate deployment. Open source solutions sometimes require people with specific skills, such as IT programmers, who can use open source tools to build something useful for organizations. Whether a nonprofit or social enterprise has the in-house skills to help use such tool should be taken into consideration.
New filtering options have been added. Now, readers can not only sort relevant technology categories by the three main criteria (usability, affordability, or accessibility), but also apply specific filters such as open source or user roles functionality.

To see the full list of technologies featured in this catalog, please click here.