The role of technology in crisis management solutions

Unfortunately, conflict and crisis is something that happens around the world due to many factors, usually a difference in opinion, race or religion. More often than not, innocent parties are required to enter the scene as mediators on a common ground. This mediation can sometimes take place in remote places, or at least remote as far as technology is concerned – for example there may be no mobile phone network so communication can become difficult.

This is where technology such as a satellite phone can help.

Unlike traditional mobile phones, Satellite phones use a network of satellites that orbit the earth and relay signals back to handsets on the ground. This is ideal for remote locations such as deserts that have a direct line of sight back to the satellites without any interference, however in some locations, such as dense jungles signal can become weak or even lost.

The beauty of the Satellite phone however is that it doesn’t rely on local cell towers, so you can be out at sea or in a vast open space and communication can be made with anyone else on the planet, either with another satellite phone handset or a traditional landline or mobile (within a signal area).

Satellite phone kits usually come in a portable carry case, making them relatively easy to carry from location to location, although they do tend to be generally larger than as standard mobile phone. Although the number of handsets used has increased since the 1990’s they are still relatively expensive in comparison to other communication methods, however it is now possible to rent the handsets making it a more viable and cost effective option.

You will probably see Satellite phone handsets used on military documentaries on television both on land and at sea. It is absolutely imperative that communication is established with troops or workers in remote locations as it can help evade potential crisis and in many situations save lives. Don’t forget that a crisis situation isn’t just military; it can be aid workers in a foreign country who lose their way and require assistance.

Technology has come along way in the last decade and is now a very important part of any crisis management solution. Through the use of satellite tracking and communications it can now help to save many lives and prevent unnecessary loss.