Deploying Visual Message Boards for Mass Notification
Best practices and common pitfalls of emergency notification system deployment
By Inova Solutions
Emergency notification experts agree that colleges and universities are best served by multiple mass notification channels, or message delivery end-points. This layered approach prevents a single point of failure if one component of the technology solution experiences difficulty in activation or message dispatch.
The most holistic mass notification strategies include visual communications components. Many colleges, such as Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Virginia, have satisfied this requirement by installing LED digital signage solutions throughout classrooms and common areas on campus.
However, deciding to implement a visual mass notification system is only the first step. Once the lengthy process of budget approval and vendor bidding is complete, focus must shift to appropriate system deployment – including installation, testing and maintenance. Even the best notification system on the market loses its effectiveness if deployed incorrectly or inefficiently.
Message Board Deployment Best Practices
Since every campus is different, implementation of an emergency notification system should be tailored to individual requirements and challenges. Reputable mass notification vendors and product manufacturers should evaluate your campus layout and assess your unique situation prior to the purchase of any device. This will ensure optimal system deployment and seamless integration with your existing mass notification solution(s). Be cautious of manufacturers or integrators that are unwilling to engage in meetings with stakeholders or partner with the institution for a proof of concept.
To ensure successful deployment of emergency notification message boards on a college campus, follow these steps:
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