In 2011, an historic flood devastated Bangkok. Hundreds died, and tens of billions of dollars were lost in economic damages.

During and after the disaster, the combined efforts of thousands of residents formed the foundation of the city’s response. But while groups of citizens working in concert were able to deploy boats and organize shelters, one thing they couldn’t do on their own was distribute real-time data about the disaster.

For that, they would need technology: a homegrown system that’s cheap, durable, and takes advantage of the city’s informal networks, perhaps its greatest strength in times of crisis.

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A golden statue is displayed at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram or Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok on February 28, 2010. (PORNCHAI KITTIWONGSAKUL/AFP/Getty Images)