Onboarding in the Humanitarian Sector Using Digital Platforms: The IFRC Global Onboarding Portal Case Study

Abstract

The humanitarian sector faces unique challenges, including the need for rapid mobilisation, cultural diversity and limited resources. Digital transformation, particularly in onboarding processes, offers strategic solutions by streamlining operations, improving efficiency, communication, collaboration and staff engagement, while ensuring alignment with the organisation's mission. This article explores the role of digital platforms, specifically the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Global Onboarding Portal, in standardising onboarding processes across global teams. In addition, the research highlights the importance of agile project management strategies and human-centred design in the development of the onboarding programme. Future research is recommended to assess the long-term impact of the onboarding programme through longitudinal studies and to explore the potential of artificial intelligence to optimise onboarding processes.