As organisations face increasingly complex risks, the importance of having a reliable out-of-band communications platform cannot be overstated. These systems offer continuity and security when primary communication channels fail or need to be bypassed during a crisis - such as ransomware and cyber attacks.
If you're looking into adopting an out-of-band communications platform, we've compiled the essential features to consider in an effective out-of-band communications platform:
A key feature of any out-of-band communications platform is its independence from primary systems. This is crucial in situations like ransomware or cyberattacks, where traditional communication channels may be compromised. An out-of-band platform ensures that response teams can still communicate securely and react quickly without interference or surveillance from attackers.
By operating on a separate infrastructure, these platforms provide a vital lifeline, enabling organisations to coordinate responses, share critical information, and protect sensitive data even during the most severe disruptions.
To ensure continuous operation, the platform must be built on redundant cloud infrastructure that supports an array failover mechanisms. This should ideally include geographically dispersed data centres, diverse network paths, and backup power solutions. Redundancy will mitigate the risk of complete downtime, keeping communication lines open during major system outages or network failures.
Security is paramount in handling critical communication. Key features to look for include:
A mobile-accessible platform provides flexibility, enabling authorised users to send alerts, access information, and monitor responses from anywhere. This is particularly valuable when incident managers are off-site, ensuring they can still manage and respond to events as needed.
When connectivity is lost, offline access to essential documents, response plans, action cards, and contact directories becomes critical. This feature allows teams to refer to crisis protocols and reach vital contacts, even in situations where network access is compromised.
Effective mass alerting allows for rapid communication across various channels and ensures maximum reach. Consider platforms that offer:
During a crisis, teams need to collaborate and make decisions quickly. A comprehensive platform should include tools to facilitate:
A tamper-proof audit trail is essential for both legal compliance and post-incident analysis. This feature records who accessed the system, what actions they took, and timestamps for all communications. In sectors like finance and healthcare, an audit trail is vital to ensure regulatory compliance. After the incident, this data helps teams understand the timeline of decisions and evaluate the effectiveness of the response.
In the wake of GDPR and other privacy regulations, data compliance is crucial. Platforms should guarantee that all data storage and processing comply with GDPR standards, including handling requests for data access and deletion. Ensuring compliance minimises the risk of penalties and helps build trust with stakeholders.
Robust reporting tools are invaluable for post-incident analysis, providing insights into the effectiveness of communication and response. Look for platforms that offer:
Beyond these core features, consider additional capabilities that enhance usability and adaptability:
A well-rounded out-of-band communications platform equips organisations with the tools needed to communicate, collaborate, and coordinate during crises, strengthening resilience and response.
By investing in a platform like Sentinel Spaces - which offers all these out-of-band features - organisations can ensure that they’re ready to handle incidents with speed, security, and efficiency.