TELESTATUS ASP™

Why do emergency services need electronic/computer dispatch?

Traditional chalk and magnetic status boards lack efficiency and interoperability. TeleStatus ASP™ is a web-based electronic database and status board that provides interoperability and interagency for two-way communications via a secured website. This product brings emergency response operations into the 21st century. It offers a cost-effective user platform that is customizable, expandable and scalable to any emergency service group. Improved communications benefits everyone as it facilitates more effective response activity.

How can TeleStatus ASP™ benefit local and regional emergency dispatch centers/teams?

TeleStatus ASP™ takes the guesswork out of tracking people and equipment that may be needed for rapid response to an emergency. By knowing exactly who and what equipment is available, emergency management organizations are able to better handle emergencies, which may be fire, flood, earthquakes or other natural disasters.

TeleStatus ASP™ gives dispatchers the ability to more effectively handle volunteers, personnel and equipment with lower costs and greater productivity. While some major cities are building multi-million dollar emergency communications departments, TeleStatus ASP™ delivers a similar concept for dispatch centers working with a smaller operating budget.

How does TeleStatus ASP™ operate?

TeleStatus ASP™ is an advanced, automated service that uses internet, telephone and wireless technologies. Volunteers and dispatchers can access TeleStatus ASP™ by using landline telephones, mobile phones or data-capable devices (PDAs, computers or other handheld devices with internet access). Interfaces can be built to any communication medium, such as 2-way pagers or other proprietary networks with the ability to use an internet gateway/website. Through the website, subscribers can view and change status, location and title. Subscribing centers in a particular region can also be linked to increase the volunteer pool for improved response support.

What does TeleStatus ASP™ cost?

The cost of TeleStatus ASP™ is comparable to wireless/cell phone services. 

Why use the Internet for communicating?

The internet is a principle and cost-effective communication medium that is now a universal tool. In the event of a power-outage, batteries can power laptops or a generator can power desktop computers and laptops. Subscriptions to multiple internet providers (Cable, DSL, wireless and dial-up) ensure connectivity. TeleStatus ASP™ offers information on top-notch co-location providers across the world, using top-of-the-line G9 internet servers. TeleStatus ASP™ is an application solution based on current and emerging standards - TCP/IP, VoIP, SIP, SMS, XML and CAP.

We need to limit the addition of equipment in our very tight control room. What additional equipment will TeleStatus ASP™ require?

Because TeleStatus ASP™ is offered as a subscription-based, managed service, emergency management organizations do not have to buy or manage any equipment. All that is needed is a access to the Internet. TeleStatus ASP™ complements existing emergency notification systems; it seamlessly integrates with the systems and processes in emergency management organizations.

Why is TeleStatus ASP™, a simple service, best for responding to emergencies?

In an emergency, the high usability of TeleStatus ASP™ organizes and facilitates universal communications for improved response. Dispatchers can readily view the status of volunteers and equipment and reduces radio transmissions utilizing real time information.

Will each volunteer need to have a mobile phone to use TeleStatus ASP™?

Volunteers can access TeleStatus ASP™ by using landline or mobile telephones or by using any internet-ready device such as a laptop or Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Volunteers call in to the system using individual passcodes to automatically-update his or her status, similar to the speedy automated phone services used to check bank account balances or remaining cell phone minutes. If a volunteer opts to use the internet to update status, he or she can quickly log-into the TeleStatus ASP™ website and update his or her status with just a few clicks of the mouse.

Will TeleStatus ASP™ function during a power outage?

Battery-powered computers, generators and internet-ready mobile phones are not dependent on traditional power in the advent of a short power outage. TeleStatus ASP™ volunteers and dispatchers can prepare for a power outage by ensuring additional laptop and mobile phone batteries are available. Because TeleStatus ASP™ servers are strategically located internationally, the service is always available.

Will TeleStatus ASP™ be affected if the internet/server is not working?

International co-location servers offer dependable connectivity and speed. For a worst-case scenario, dispatch centers should be equipped with multiple internet providers to ensure connection. Installation of a back-up server and/or use of a dial-up connection provide cost-effective options if an internet server is down.

How much training will volunteers have to undergo?

Minimal training is required. The training can be done on-site and can be repeated as new users join the organization.

How secure is the software from viruses and intruders?

Software engineers, the best of California’s Silicon Valley, have developed effective firewalls for TeleStatus ASP™ to prevent damages from viruses or intruders. The website can only be accessed through a secure login feature that only permits designated users. Dispatch center computers should install anti-virus software and discourage internet surfing to prevent computer viruses.

What are the governmental procedures for implementing TeleStatus ASP™?

Governmental procedures vary by community, but TeleStatus ASP™ can help dispatch centers meet the goals of improved interoperability and interagency that most volunteer service centers seek. TeleStatus ASP™ can also be customized to fit specific government requirements.