Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have long played a vital role in enhancing the areas they serve, making them safer, more vibrant places to live and work. However, the challenges faced by these districts have evolved, with growing concerns around security, ranging from petty crime to the more serious threats of terrorism and riots.
In response to these challenges, BIDs are increasingly adopting innovative technologies to protect their communities. One such technology is the Sentinel platform, which is transforming how BIDs manage security and resilience.
Sentinel: A Game Changer for BIDs
Sentinel is not just another tool for centralised management; it’s a dynamic platform that empowers communities within BIDs to actively participate in ensuring their own safety and security. Unlike traditional systems where communication is top-down, Sentinel fosters a networked approach where streets, businesses, and communities within the BID can collaborate in real time.
The Role of BIDs in Modern Urban Security
The primary objective of a BID is to improve the area it serves, making it a better place to live and work. This includes not only aesthetic improvements and business development but also addressing security concerns.
Whether it’s dealing with the threat of violence, the rise of shoplifting, or the potential for civil unrest, BIDs need tools that allow them to respond quickly and effectively. Sentinel provides exactly that—a powerful, adaptable solution that enhances the BID’s ability to keep its constituents safe.
How Sentinel Works Within BIDs
With Sentinel, each Business Improvement District can have their own custom-branded app, which is more than just a communication tool. This app connects the entire community, allowing retailers, night economy workers, hoteliers, and other stakeholders to communicate and share information securely. Sentinel’s approach is different because it allows for the creation of secure groups within the BID.
For example, retailers can form a group to share information about suspected shoplifters, while hoteliers can have their own space to discuss safety measures during busy periods.
These groups are not just about sharing concerns—they can share images, CCTV footage, and even best practices or important documents. This continuous flow of information makes the community more resilient and better prepared to respond to incidents as they develop.
Security and Privacy: Key Advantages of Sentinel
One of the standout features of Sentinel is its commitment to privacy and security. Unlike platforms like WhatsApp, Sentinel ensures that users do not have to share personal information, such as mobile numbers or email addresses, with the group. This is crucial in maintaining privacy, particularly in professional settings where individuals may not want to disclose their personal contact details.
Sentinel also addresses GDPR compliance with its secure data storage solutions. Information shared within the app is encrypted and stored on BID-controlled servers. This means that any data can be managed, retrieved, or deleted as required, providing peace of mind to all users.
Empowering Communities Through Real-Time Communication
Once a community within a BID is established and the Sentinel app is adopted, the possibilities for real-time communication are immense. Sentinel’s mass notification system allows BID managers to alert the entire BID or specific groups within seconds of any security concern. This rapid communication can be vital in situations where every minute counts, such as during a riot or an unfolding security threat.
While BIDs should not attempt to replace the role of law enforcement, they do have a crucial role in bridging the gap between the onset of an incident and the official response.
For example, while the Metropolitan Police may be the ultimate authority on a security incident, there can be delays in communication. In the meantime, BIDs using Sentinel can provide accurate, timely updates to help businesses and residents make informed decisions, rather than relying on potentially misleading social media chatter.
The Value of Sentinel to BIDs
The ability of a BID to enhance security and provide immediate, relevant information to its community is a significant value add, particularly for those paying the BID levy. Sentinel not only makes the BID area safer but also strengthens the BID’s position as a valuable and responsive organisation that is in tune with the needs of its community.
Conclusion
In an age where the speed of communication can mean the difference between safety and chaos, Sentinel is an invaluable tool for Business Improvement Districts. By connecting communities, safeguarding privacy, and enabling rapid, secure communication, Sentinel is helping BIDs not just respond to today’s challenges, but to proactively create safer, more resilient spaces for everyone involved.
As more BIDs adopt this technology, the impact will be clear—safer streets, better communication, and a stronger sense of community resilience.
Blog Cover Photo by Jorge Percival on Unsplash
