Public Safety

Modern Voice Platforms Make the Difference When Confronting Disasters

First responders benefit from a robust, scalable system in emergency situations.

Stacy Schwartz is vice president of U.S. public sector and education for RingCentral.

For frontline workers serving communities across America, the flow of information is crucial for running efficient operations that can expand and contract as demands dictate. That means being able to integrate data and real-time communications efficiently while staying resilient under even the most challenging circumstances.

Modern voice platforms play an important role in this convergence of technology for first responders, acting as the reliable linchpin for all streams of information.

The use of cloud-based mobile communication systems and apps in disaster response has been found to enhance agency coordination, leading to faster response times. Beyond that, early warning systems using SMS and voice are an important factor in getting people out of harm’s way.

According to the United Nations, such systems can reduce fatalities by up to 30 percent through efforts such as early warnings for tsunamis or hurricanes that allow for timely evacuations, greatly reducing potential casualties.

From disaster relief to daily emergency medical services, reliable voice systems will always be a non-negotiable element of urgent communication. Frontline workers must be given the right voice tools to perform their jobs effectively. Failing to make these digital investments will lead to siloed work and departmental and geographical gaps.

Click the banner below see how local agencies improve collaboration with tech.

Modern Voice Harnesses AI for Robust Capabilities

Modern voice isn’t the tethered, analog experience it used to be. Voice is a critical component for frontline emergency services agencies, not only because it is the most resilient form of communication but also because modern voice apps can act as mobile platforms, integrating all kinds of data.

These days, cutting-edge voice turns a call into an artificial intelligence-powered collaboration tool before, during and after an emergency. Next-generation voice apps deploy powerful capabilities for the field, including push-to-talk technology, AI-powered video, live transcription, background noise reduction and file sharing, all in one platform.

Back at the office, agencies can deploy voice tools that enhance collaboration. While real-time voice is critical in an emergency, it’s just as important for connecting disparate teams for planning and training as well as coordination in the aftermath of an event. By using one common platform that combines file sharing, phone, messaging and video meetings, first responder organizations can ensure that they’re ready in the event of a disaster and prepare to navigate communications logistics once the dust settles.

Scalable Solutions Adapt to the Needs of First Responders

Beyond the front-end features, in practical terms, agencies should be looking for solutions that combine scalability, redundancy, quality and security — all of which build the framework for a reliable and resilient voice platform.

IT teams should expect immediate transitions to backup systems and be able to scale to twice their capacity when demand floods communications platforms. Security must be holistic across all communications, including elements such as access and vulnerability management, incident response, fraud monitoring, audits and third-party testing.

Agency needs vary, and there are always competing priorities, but one thing remains true: Voice is just as important as any other communications tool, especially when dealing with real-time needs that first responders face across the country.

First responders know better than most how important foundational technologies such as voice are in their day-to-day operations. Voice has a role to play in innovating communications and serving as a reliable resource to those helping manage emergencies every day, whether that means coordinating responses or sharing real-time information with people who need it the most. As state and local emergency services modernize, voice must be a part of the conversation.

Reinhard Krull/Getty Images