Much like a carpenter requires the right materials and tools, as an IMO you will need the full range of softwares and licenses to ensure you can operate effectively and efficiently. At the global level, the gFSC does not control licenses for the IMOs, instead the CLA or Standby partner who contracts the IMO is responsible for the licenses. However, gFSC strives to ensure that all IMOs have the tools they need and endorses specific software to align with the CLAs.
It is worth noting that the CLAs and Standby partners may have different agreements/ subscriptions with specific licenses, therefore the following is a guide and will require some flexibility.
Whether you are hired by WFP, FAO or a standby partner, it is advised to discuss with the gFSC focal point for any required clarifications:
See Licences Table here:
| Function / objective | Licence/ Software | Comments | How to get it |
|---|---|---|---|
Core basic | Microsoft Office 365 | Corporate tool for WFP & FAO & most organisations | provided by CLA or standby partner |
| AI Assistance | Microsoft Copilot | Integrated with Microsoft 365 tools (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) to enhance productivity, automate tasks, and support data analysis | Included with Microsoft 365 licenses; check with CLA or IT focal point (1.6.9) |
Interactive Data Analytics & visualisation | Tableau
| Corporate tool for WFP & FAO Recommended by the gFSC
| Licenses are available – requires request to Country Office
|
Power Bi | Gfsc does not endorse Power Bi pro and it is not corporate tool for CLAs | Free version available in Desktop version. Pro to be asked / procured by the CLA in country | |
Databases and Analysis
| Excel | Available in Microsoft Office | Provided by CLA or Standby partner |
Microsoft Access | Available in Microsoft Office |
| |
R | Not encouraged for general database and analysis tasks – however, used for specific processes/ automations | Open source and freely downloadable | |
Data Visualisation | Adobe Illustrator/ Publisher / InDesign | Not officially endorsed by the Cluster | Can be requested from country office |
Power Point | Cluster endorsed | Available with Microsoft 365 | |
GIS | QGIS | Not official tool of CLAs, but alternative when licenses are not available | Open source and freely downloadable |
ArcGIS | Official tool for CLAs | Get in touch with gFSC IM team who will facilitate this |