Problem statement

In times of emergency situations, whether it’s during a natural or technological disaster, mobility is a major issue. Some mobility issues comes in the form of evacuation needs and transferring of disaster relief goods (e.g. water, food, supplies, etc) to affected communities.

After an act of violence such as  shootings, demand for transportation is higher than a typical day. This makes it  difficult to meet increased customer demand and help people in these situations.

Design question

How might Uber utilize mobility as a strength for the local community during times of need?

I. Donor application

Donors can make a donation during any disaster using the Uber Aid platform. Uber will notify all their existing users about the new Uber Aid platform. Uber will match the listed donations on the platform with the organizations in need.

II. Organization website

An organization can search for different types of donations depending on the disaster situation. Once they find a suitable match, they can submit a request to the donor to have it delivered at their organization.

III. Driver application (iOS and Android)

After the organization finds a donation that matches their requirement, the driver will submit an Uber Aid request to collect relief resources from the donor and drop it off at a designated location selected by the other parties.

Competitive analysis findings

Communication, connectivity, and community integration is pivotal in emergency situations.

Companies and organizations all fell into one of the following categories: an organized group of volunteers or orgs focused on disaster relief, the government, a corporation utilizing their current infrastructure, or a newly formed emergent group wanting to help their community.

Literature review findings

After Action Report of the Aurora Bridge incident showed that donations were not handled well and was a major area that needed improvement. This finding in the after action review influenced Uber Aid’s designs.