How can technology help you communicate with emergency management agencies and stakeholders?

1 Mobile Devices and Apps

Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are ubiquitous and versatile tools that can enable you to communicate with various audiences and access information on the go. You can use mobile apps to send and receive alerts, messages, and reports; access maps, data, and resources; and capture and share images, videos, and audio. Some examples of mobile apps that can support your communication needs are FEMA, Disaster Alert, Waze, and Zello. However, you should also be aware of the limitations and risks of mobile devices and apps, such as battery life, network coverage, security, and privacy.

2 Social Media and Web Platforms

Social media and web platforms are powerful and popular ways to communicate with the public and other stakeholders, as they can reach a large and diverse audience, provide real-time updates, and foster engagement and feedback. You can use social media and web platforms to share information, warnings, and advice; monitor and respond to queries, comments, and concerns; and collect and analyze data, insights, and trends. Some examples of social media and web platforms that can support your communication needs are Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and WordPress. However, you should also be aware of the challenges and pitfalls of social media and web platforms, such as misinformation, rumors, and trolls.

3 Radio and Satellite Systems

Radio and satellite systems are reliable and resilient tools that can enable you to communicate with other agencies and remote areas, as they can operate independently of the local infrastructure and power supply. You can use radio and satellite systems to transmit and receive voice, data, and video; establish and maintain interoperability and coordination; and access and provide emergency services and support. Some examples of radio and satellite systems that can support your communication needs are HAM radio, CB radio, satellite phone, and satellite internet. However, you should also be aware of the costs and requirements of radio and satellite systems, such as licenses, equipment, and training.

4 Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Geographic information systems (GIS) are specialized tools that can enable you to communicate with spatial data and maps, as they can integrate, visualize, and analyze various types of information related to the location and environment. You can use GIS to identify and assess hazards, risks, and vulnerabilities; plan and implement mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery actions; and communicate and collaborate with other agencies and stakeholders. Some examples of GIS that can support your communication needs are ArcGIS, QGIS, Google Maps, and OpenStreetMap. However, you should also be aware of the technical and ethical issues of GIS, such as accuracy, quality, and privacy.

5 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are emerging and innovative tools that can enable you to communicate with data and algorithms, as they can process, learn, and improve from large and complex data sets and tasks. You can use AI and ML to enhance and automate your communication functions, such as data collection, analysis, and dissemination; natural language processing, translation, and generation; and decision making, prediction, and recommendation. Some examples of AI and ML that can support your communication needs are IBM Watson, Google Translate, and Amazon Alexa. However, you should also be aware of the limitations and implications of AI and ML, such as bias, error, and accountability.

Communication is a crucial skill for emergency managers, and technology can help you improve and optimize your communication practices and outcomes. By using the appropriate technology tools and platforms, you can communicate with emergency management agencies and stakeholders more effectively and efficiently, and ultimately enhance your emergency management performance and impact.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?