Updates: Ensuring Safe Communication And Keeping Users Engaged

At Timby, our tools are continuously evolving to adapt to the dynamic needs of our partners and the diverse projects they lead. What began as a user-friendly platform for frontline monitors to report environmental illegalities has grown into a multifaceted tool supporting intragroup communication, local governance, and community engagement.

One of the most significant advancements in this journey has been the Updates feature. In its early years, Timby’s tools were designed to enable local communities to safely collect media and detailed reports that could be triaged and resolved. Our focus on usability was aimed at minimizing barriers to community participation and the need for training, thereby encouraging widespread adoption.

As more organizations adopted Timby, a common challenge emerged. Dashboard moderators often needed additional context or follow-up details to address the reported issues effectively. This gap inspired the development of the Updates feature, which we launched in the spring of 2024.

The Updates interface enables Dashboard moderators to request further information about submitted reports and enables Mobile App and WhatsApp users to provide additional details on the reports they have already sent in–even for reports submitted anonymously. This exchange results in richer, more comprehensive reports that are particularly impactful in government or legal contexts.

Since its launch, the Updates feature has deepened user engagement with the Timby system. When users receive notifications acknowledging receipt of their reports, demonstrating how their reports are being used, or sharing details of the societal changes prompted by their reports, they recognize the value and impact of their contributions.

This feedback loop fosters a sense of recognition and purpose that not only validates users’ efforts but also motivates them to stay engaged, often resulting in reports with increasing detail and quality over time. Such engagement not only strengthens trust with users but also amplifies the effectiveness of our partners in driving meaningful change.

As we look to the future, Timby remains committed to refining its tools to meet the evolving needs of our partners and their communities. By fostering transparency, enhancing communication, and empowering individuals and communities, we aim to continue to make a tangible difference in the critical issues that our users address.