Online file repository

Set up an online folder structure and file repository for WASH cluster/sector documents

To share documents with partners, the WASH coordination platform can set up an online file repository, which is usually easier to maintain than a website. Well-known platforms include DropBox, Google Drive, OneDrive, Box, etc. Well-managed online file repositories can be essential during emergencies. They can serve to:

• Facilitate file management and internal information access across the coordination team

• Share information with partners that is not appropriate for the public website (e.g. contact details)

• Maintain response documentation and facilitate handovers

When shared folders are synchronized on team members / partner computer, always keep files as small as possible to avoid overloading people’s computer. Try to keep separate (view only) folders for larger reference collections, and/or publish completed documents to the website.

Another critical consideration when maintaining information repositories, particularly those with multiple contributors, is the file-naming convention (see  in this page). This will help you keep track of which is the latest version of the document. Using specific document categories (see ) will also help someone search for specific documents / examples across the repository.