> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ushahidi.com/platform-user-manual/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ushahidi.com/platform-user-manual/overview-of-ushahidi-platform-v3.0.md).

# Overview of Ushahidi Platform \[Mzima]

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## What does Ushahidi Do? <a href="#what-does-ushahidi-do" id="what-does-ushahidi-do"></a>

* Ushahidi is a tool for collecting, managing, and visualizing data.
* Data can be collected from anyone, anytime, anywhere by SMS, email, web reports, mobile applications, and twitter.
* Posts can be managed and triaged with filters and workflows.
* Data can be managed and visualized in different ways : on a map, as a list, or in different charts and tables through the activity view.

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## Who is Ushahidi For? <a href="#who-is-ushahidi-for" id="who-is-ushahidi-for"></a>

While anyone can use Ushahidi, traditionally it has been a tool used by Crisis Responders, Human Rights Reporters, and Citizens & Governments (such as election monitoring or corruption reporters). We also serve environmental mappers, asset monitoring, citizen journalism, international development, and many others.

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## What's New in Mzima Platform? <a href="#what-s-new-in-version-3" id="what-s-new-in-version-3"></a>

The functionalities of the mzima platform remain largely the same with what was in v3 platform.

* ***Client:*** The main difference is the improved user interface and user experience.
* ***Backend API:***&#x20;
  * Transitioned to a newer version of the Laravel framework: For enhanced performance, scalability, and productivity. With Improved documentation.
  * REST API v5 Completion which empowers you to extend the capabilities of the Ushahidi Platform effortlessly.
  * Deprecation of REST API v3 Implementation

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***Note:*** Work is still ongoing to incorporate functionalities from previous versions into mzima platform, and also add enhanced and new features.