Crisis mapping utilizes mobile technology, geospatial platforms, visual models, and statistics to spur rapid early warning responses in a range of disaster scenarios. As a tool, crisis mapping has enabled those on the ground to better plan and allocate resources in humanitarian emergencies.

Essentially, crisis mappers are engaged in the live mapping of evolving catastrophes. Interestingly, crisis mapping technology has been leveraged in numerous cases including political, social, and environmental crises.