[This is in rough notes form....random thoughts, as a result of an email conversation.....]

It’s location-based right out of the gate

• PRO: It does it for you, instead of needing to manually aggregate the info like some other tools, or tag it like in Twitter.
• CON: in a situation of violence-based conflict, this may be detrimental if the “opposing side” can use this information to locate you.
• Does this mean that perhaps Foursquare is best used in only disaster-based crisis situations?
• Is there a way this problem can be addressed effectively?

Direct connection to contacts

• Much easier to have exact information on location of your contacts.
• Could help reconnect people during or after crisis.
• Could help mobilize people effectively, both those affected and possibly aid workers.
• Could help reach people for rescue/assistance etc
• How many direct connections are needed for the tool to be helpful? (For instance, is it necessary to be actually connected to someone on Foursquare to do the above?)

Each post can be supplemented with commentary

• More detailed information can accompany the more exact location details, obvious benefits…..

I think there are many more things to think about here, but it seems like a no-brainer to me.  Their platform can greatly increase the accuracy of the information available in these situations.  I don’t need to tell you about the importance of that information.