The society had implemented a Microsoft Dynamics CRM in 2009 and Ranby was keen to leverage the database. He engaged the services of Magnetism to create a solution to manage the application process and distribute funds to applicants.

The criteria for applications is set by an independent Red Cross Earthquake Commission, but it was up to New Zealand Red Cross to ensure the delivery of the grants was managed in way that is both secure and timely.

The system that Magnetism designed took the data from the paper-based applications forms and ensured there was no duplication of applicants' information, and streamlined the daily payments process. Ranby says they originally thought the grants dispersement's would take a several weeks, but it turned out to be a job requiring months of work. The biggest disbursement following the September quake -- $1.5 million -- occurred on Christmas Eve. Following the February quake the largest payment in a day was $4.9 million on March 21.

Despite the delay Ranby is full of praise for Magnetism, which he says follows the agile method of development, which works well with a small IT team.

When the second quake struck, New Zealand Red Cross had a fully developed grant management system to manage disbursements. And, learning the lessons of the September quake, they installed some enhancements so that data entry -- much of it hand written -- was accurate.