What are the best tools and methods to collect and analyze crisis data?

I learned the hard way the importance of damage control as one of the key objectives in a crisis situation. Often crisis offers us no good outcome. In times of crisis, we are often choosing between bad and worst and not good or bad. Choosing lesser evil should be one of the objectives.

Always begin with the end in mind. Consider: You wouldn't set out on a business trip without a destination. Similarly, for crisis data, understand your core purpose. Ask yourself: "What decisions hinge on this data?" For instance, if facing a cyberattack, is your goal to pinpoint the breach source or to gauge its impact on operations? Your objectives drive your tools and approach. Make them precise.

Treat data sources like trusted colleagues in a meeting. Would you consult a newbie or a seasoned pro for a crucial decision? For a cyberattack, internal server logs might be your go-to. If you're facing a reputational crisis, customer feedback and media reports are invaluable. Always prioritize reliable, timely, and relevant sources that align with your objectives. It is important to stay ethical and legal.

One thing I found helpful is communicating directly with people on the ground in order to get real-time objective information.

Something I've learned is that when selecting a tool you must be sure of the following: 1. Your tool must facilitate your work instead of complicating it. 2. Knowing the theory of the analysis your are performing is mandatory. 3. You must know how to use the tool. Some tools require a lot of effort to make them work. This won't help if you need to process the data as fast as you can. On the other hand, not knowing your tool can lead you to false interpretations, even worst if you do not know the theory of the analysis.

Choosing a tool is like hiring for a critical role. Would you want a generalist for a specialist's job? For a cyberattack, lean on intrusion detection systems. For reputation management, sentiment analysis tools are key. Prioritize tools that align with your specific objectives, ensuring they’re user-friendly, scalable, and compliant.

One thing I found helpful is preparing communication protocols, texts, videos, or Socal Media posts and choosing communication channels, and spokespersons in advance. When the real crisis is ongoing people tend to get into survival mode at that time preparation is the key.

One thing I have observed is the value of clear communication. Imagine, after a cyberattack, you found a breach's origin. Rather than burying stakeholders in technical jargon, say: "We've identified the weak spot and are addressing it." Make findings relatable, actionable, and concise. It is important to keep the messaging simple and tailored for its audience.