> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://norwegian-refugee-council.gitbook.io/information-management-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://norwegian-refugee-council.gitbook.io/information-management-handbook/welcome-to-the-information-management-im-handbook.md).
# Welcome to the Information Management (IM) Handbook
#### This Handbook standardizes IM practices across COs & programs, enhancing data quality, decision-making, & collaboration while providing practical & strategic guidance on managing programme data.
In today's humanitarian and development landscape, information is a critical asset. It drives timely decisions, enables effective coordination, supports accountability to affected populations, and enhances the overall quality of programming. Without robust information management (IM) practices, organizations risk fragmented responses, data loss, inefficiencies, and even harm to the people they aim to serve.
**This Handbook was co-developed in collaboration with field teams, technical specialists, and partner organization** to reflect real operational challenges and innovations. It aims to equip staff with the tools and approaches needed to make information useful, usable, and used.
The sections that follow outline the **purpose, scope, and intended audience** for this Handbook, before diving into the key principles, tools, techniques, and lessons that shape effective Information Management.
{% content-ref url="/pages/stlOCTis8RLnETFwvYX4" %}
[Purpose](/information-management-handbook/welcome-to-the-information-management-im-handbook/purpose.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/5POq93l0KcJwOaEe3oxy" %}
[Audience](/information-management-handbook/welcome-to-the-information-management-im-handbook/audience.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/WDn0xn1S5M6iS1qguu8M" %}
[Acknowledgements](/information-management-handbook/welcome-to-the-information-management-im-handbook/acknowledgements.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
Photo: Shaden Abdulrahman/NRC
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