ECDC relevant diseases outbreaks across Europe.
It is possible to provide a web based text messaging system that will allow each
member state to manage, control and execute the delivery of text messages
within their own State or across the whole of the European Union.
The benefits
The primary bene_t of text messaging in the dissemination of information is the
ability to distribute time critical information e_ectively, and with an immediacy not
achievable using traditional telephone or email cascades. Vital, current
information can be delivered to each relevant party or group of parties directly
into a mobile handset. Text messaging is being used extensively within a number
of di_erent sectors in the context of crisis management. Messages can be
uploaded as quickly as 50 recipients per second and the messages will be
received within minutes. A delivery con_rmation is also provided. In the event of
an emergency, considerable strain on cellular networks often results in failure to
make or receive calls. As text messaging is initiated and controlled through the
web the success rate for delivery through texts is much higher as text messaging
uses a tiny bandwidth of the cellular network. Text relayed information is quicker,
more reliable and extremely cost e_ective.
Save Time Save Money Save Stress Save The Environment
Text Messaging
Management and practice
When time is critical there is no better way to instantly contact a large group of
individuals to alert them to an outbreak as well as provide regular updates as
situations develop and change. Text messaging is also a very e_ective way of
managing response and implementing action.
By utilising The messaging centre’s (TMC’s) hierarchy control system the
European Centre of Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) can develop a
network across the Union. Each Member State appoints an administrator who
has direct access from any web based computer using HTTPS security and
password access. When a Member State reports an outbreak to the central
administrator all relevant recipient groups in each Department for the
Management of Communicable Diseases will be alerted ensuring that all relevant
information is both assimilated and disseminated. The ECDC can retain full
control of the management of recipient groups, the exact content and timing in
the release of information, so that they can determine exactly who receives what
information and when they receive it, or allow each member state to manage and
control their own data, and therefore allowing member states to have access to
all of the groups for the purpose of texting.
The TMC system works as a very e_ective two-way communication vehicle and
is equally e_ective in less time-critical applications.
For example: Brent Council with whom we have worked very closely with over
the last 2 years, use text messaging in a wide range of contexts such as _ood
alert warnings, text reminders for Council tax payments or prompts for waste
collection.
In any event we would envisage working with you to develop and adapt our
system to meet your exact requirements.
Document written by: Peter Tanner director TMC
Peter Tanner
T: +44 207 2244331
M: +44 7836 225 222