An alerting system is utilized usually by large organizations in order to disseminate information to staff members when disasters occur. Systems such as this is deemed to be critical to the safety of companies and their workforce when emergencies and crises occur. Due to its time sensitivity when it comes to sending out and transmitting information, this system allows organizations to make decisions confidently and quickly because they are better informed. This timeliness then results in less damage to investments, properties and lives.
While emergencies were generally the reasons why companies would invest in notification systems, organizations now utilize these to improve communication in the workplace as well. An alerting system isn’t just for emergencies and calamities anymore. It can also be used in the following ways:
1. Notifying employees in different locations
The system not only allows you to send messages that have to do with emergencies to employees in different locations, you can also opt to use it to distribute information about company policies and urgent messages and news. An alerting system can aid in the dissemination of information easily and quickly.
2. Business continuity
Management can use the system to send millions of messages per hour through different channels such as email, voice and SMS. This is done to ensure that business operations continue even during times of emergencies and incidents.
3. Managing incidents
When emergencies occur, not only are employees informed of the events, the system also logs incidents so that management is informed about what is going on at any point. This allows for better decision-making.
4. Integrating data
This system’s varying functionalities allow for more connectivity, more automated communication processes and integrated responses from recipients.
5. Managing responses
Responses can be planned and managed better based on the feedback management gets from employees.
How to Select an Alerting System
Not only are alert systems utilized to inform staff about emergencies and incidents, they are also needed to improve internal communications within an organization. Because of this, when opting for a system, make sure the one that you decide on has the functionalities that you, your company, and your workforce require. After taking these requirements into consideration, you can then evaluate your options with the following criteria:
1. How easy it is to use
Complex systems may seem appealing, but you will have no use for them if you can’t deploy them easily especially during emergency situations. Instead, opt for a system that allows you to send notifications easily and quickly.
2. How reliable and efficient it is
Make sure you do you research before purchasing any system. Read up on different options, as well as reviews. Look into issues previous customers have had with the systems that you are looking into.
Also take into account systems that can accommodate upgrades and additions, as you will more likely need to upgrade and add on to your system as your business grows and expands.
3. Total cost
While cost may not be a concern, especially when it comes to the safety of your staff, you may want to look into a solution that fits your budget. Even though this system is deemed to be an investment, “expensive” doesn’t always mean “best”.
Check the functionalities of each system that you are looking into and see if these features coincide with your own requirements. This will help you opt for the best system for you and your organization.
Look into an alerting system that not only helps prepare you for emergencies, but also improves communication in the workplace. A notification software such as DeskAlerts may just be the solution you are looking for. Contact us today to find out more.
