For many, whiling the hours away browsing the internet, checking emails and downloading the latest apps on our mobile phones comes far too easily and although we can’t overlook the business benefits of mobile communication it’s the lifestyle and entertainment pros that more often catch our attention and make their way into our conversations.

However, the recent disaster in Haiti has highlighted quite clearly how, for all the fun that mobile access can provide, there is a more serious side to how this technology can be used for our benefit. The first images and videos to reach the public from the earthquake-torn region on Tuesday were captured with mobile phones and now, with the breakdown of traditional means of communication tools such as Twitter are being used as the primary means of contact and Google and Facebook are making missing persons lists available.

Charities worldwide have been quick to set up text aid lines for the public to pledge money to relief work to those in Haiti. As a result the Red Cross and other relief organisations have now raised more than $20 million via text message donations. Not only has mobile communication aided the spread of information quickly, but has had a direct impact on getting help to the right places and people.

For a list of ways to donate money, including by your mobile phone click here