When the Tsunami ravaged Southeast Asia, or when Hurricane Ike touched down in Texas, or when severe flooding impacted Manitoba residents, Canadian Red Cross workers responded immediately. Red Cross volunteers and staff are highly-trained, dedicated humanitarians who serve the most vulnerable members of society through an international network – in 187 countries around the world.

Photo: Winnipeg Free Press

As Secretary General and CEO of Canada’s largest humanitarian aid organization, I’ve seen firsthand how technology makes it easier for generous Canadian donors to rapidly turn their care and compassion into aid, support and hope for those who need it most.

In May 2009, the Canadian Red Cross was the recipient of Microsoft Canada’s largest software donation to date. The donation included business software (Microsoft® Office 2007 and SharePoint®), Windows Terminal Services as well as the developer tool Visual Studio®. One hundred servers are being updated and serving two thousand Canadian Red Cross workers.

These updates will increase efficiency and free up much needed resources for the Canadian Red Cross to focus on disaster management, first aid, water safety, conflict, fund development and violence and abuse prevention – areas we have been deeply committed to for up to 100 years.

Photo: Winnipeg Free Press

But what does this really mean?

Imagine if you were one of several thousand Canadian Red Cross workers and were stationed in a remote field operation. With low connectivity, accessing files and time-sensitive information would be extremely difficult. With Terminal Services and SharePoint®, workers in the field are able to connect with one another and access tools and information that can save lives, from anywhere in the world.

The world has changed, and we are changing with it. In areas where there is no access to computers, workers are now able to connect and share information using mobile devices. In ten or fifteen years, there is almost no limit to the possibilities that technology will bring to disaster preparedness, response and recovery. Ultimately, this will help us save lives – and that’s our bottom line.

At the Canadian Red Cross, we are looking forward to a long-standing partnership with Microsoft Canada. When two dedicated organizations team up, the results can literally change the world.

 Conrad Sauvé

Secretary General and CEO, Canadian Red Cross

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