A mass notification (MN) system’s primary objective is to disseminate one-way communication to individuals or groups of individuals in the event of an emergency.
These solutions provide the fastest way to deliver a message to the masses when a crisis situation arises. However, with advancements in software technology and successful systems integration, systems have taken on much broader scope.
In addition to having the ability to send an intelligible audio broadcast to an enabled security communication device, new MN technology is making it possible for organizations to establish two-way communication to improve operational processes. As well, recent changes made to the NFPA72 2010 make it possible for emergency communication systems to broadcast informational messages.
Three delivery models for an MN platform are available, including hosted software, on-premise or a hybrid of the two. While all three models make it easy to send notifications through various methods, the future looks especially bright for the cloud-based version that is available as a software as a service (SaaS).
Related: Expert Tips to Crafting the Right MNEC Messages
The hosted application is available offsite where users can gain instant access to send alerts from a mobile or web app through real-time connectivity to the Internet.
The new MN technology offers end users new ways to use their existing communication tools beyond typical security functions. Let’s focus on ways integrators can pitch it to corporate clients, where an MN platform can be used within all departments of a business to improve internal communication for improved business continuity, including sales and marketing, facilities, and IT.
On the sales and marketing side, MN allows upper management to initiate instant conference calls. Today’s businesses are growing into more global enterprises with employees scattered across the world and oftentimes emails or traditional conference bridges are not efficient ways to communicate with team members. For one reason or another, it’s not always possible to get everyone to join a call intended for the entire group, resulting in a breakdown of productive correspondence.
The option to integrate MN software into a customer relationship management (CRM) system makes it possible for sales directors to send team members a meeting alert and for the recipients to join the call right away by pressing a button on their phone. Delivery confirmation is a reliable feature that informs the original sender when the alert has been received or if it had been neglected on purpose.
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To keep employees productive, one large company used a notification platform to communicate with employees about the latest developments during a merger and to answer common questions regarding changing job functions and stability.
With so many dispersed employees scattered across the world, the corporate sponsored messages were sent out instantly through landline phones, SMS and emails. The company’s CEO was able to tailor the messages to answer employee concerns regarding the acquisition and then easily track the responses.
There are several ways notification technology is helping facilities departments within organizations function more efficiently. Many businesses are using notification platforms to keep everyone informed about inclement weather and possible natural disasters.
The technology not only allows the message to be delivered to thousands of employees at once, it also provides a way for them to respond with important information.
MN systems are expanding in scope and application. Integrators who embrace the chance to extend systems and approach new business opportunities with an open mind will position themselves as cutting-edge solutions providers.
Visit Commercial Integrator’s sister publication MNEC.com to learn more.
