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mobile apps, dial codes, and more can make activation a one-touch process. Automated triggers like monitored RSS and CAP feeds, gun- shot detectors, contact closures, and other Internet-of-Things devices can make the process even faster. The goal should be to make it as simple as possible to trigger an alert so no time is wasted when some- one notices an incident occurring.
It also means putting the power of triggering alerts into the hands of people who need help as soon as they need it. Tools like panic but- tons (available on mobile apps) allow students and staff to request assistance quickly and easily. This provides a direct connection to the security team, who can track the location of the person requesting help on campus and provide follow-up instructions on what they should do while they wait for help to arrive.
As an incident unfolds, being able to assess what is happening and who needs help offers a crucial advantage. Mass notification systems are helping tackle this need in two ways. The first is through expand- ed integrations with virtual collaboration tools like Webex, Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Slack. While conference calls have been an effec- tive way to gather key stakeholders who may be in separate locations, these new integrations provide useful video collaboration that allows people to share screens and check in on various areas around a cam- pus. At the same time notifications are delivered, specific messages are sent to preselected safety team members with a link to join a vir- tual space. This allows for easy sharing of information and resources to determine the best course of action for responding to an event.
Second, notifications can be sent directly to recipients asking for response. For example, if a building needs to be evacuated on cam-
pus, a notification can ask if the recipient has left the building. Responses are reported in real-time so administrators can determine if anyone still needs help getting out.
When an event has concluded, all the data points from an event can be compiled into a report that campus leaders can then analyze to assess how well they responded to an incident. This helps identify potential problem areas that need to be corrected, as well as the areas that are most effective. This information can then be used to inform future decisions and amend existing protocols to make them useful.
The biggest advantage is that it allows campuses to consolidate safety procedures and tools into a single pane of glass. Every compo- nent can be accessed, activated, and analyzed from one solution. This helps simplify training and helps reduce confusion by giving users fewer tools to remember how to use during stressful situations. It can also help reduce costs by eliminating redundant systems and adding more value to existing investments by leveraging them for safety.
Campuses and the threats they face will continue to evolve. Invest- ing in technology now that can grow along with the needs of cam- puses will help set campuses up for success in the future. With a sin- gle solution to manage any situation they may face, from an active shooter to severe weather to IT outages, campuses can streamline processes and procedures.
Paul Shain is the president and CEO of Singlewire Software, developers of InformaCast. Shain has more than a decade of experience helping develop solutions that help enhance safety and communication on K–12 and higher education campuses.
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