Omnilert has always adhered to this simple principle when it comes to pricing: Sending an emergency alert should never be a financial decision.
It can be very tempting to purchase a discount mass texting system that has a very low annual fee but then requires the purchase of “buckets of text messages,” so you only pay for exactly what you use. It makes financial sense – right?
Addressing this issue became imperative after one of our experts shared a recent inquiry with an emergency coordinator. The organization experienced an emergency that required a time-sensitive notification to go out to all employees. Unfortunately, they were unable to send the message because their pre-paid messaging service’s “bucket of messages” did not have sufficient funds required to send the message. The administrator frantically called his discount Emergency Notification System (ENS) provider to purchase additional messages so he could keep his people safe. After several phone transfers he spoke with the correct salesperson, provided his credit card information, and was finally able to alert his people.
This is unacceptable.
What would have happened if this emergency occurred during off-hours and the sales office was closed?
I must admit, there are goods that I purchase on discount or at the lowest-price option. The cheapest gas station, or the least expensive generic computer memory module, or a discount mattress are items where a bargain price guides a purchasing decision. When comparing apples to apples, you buy the cheaper apples. However, would you ever opt for the cheapest priced airbag for your vehicle? Would you choose to fly on the airline who cuts every corner to keep prices the lowest by adhering to the minimum safety requirements allowed by law? Of course not. Those aren’t apples.
Neither is your emergency notification service.
Purchasing a discount emergency notification system may save a few dollars today, however, it may cost you more than just a few dollars when you actually need to send a message.
